Gezicht op het kasteel van 's-Gravenwezel 17th century

Franz Ertinger's delicate etching presents us with a view of 's-Gravenwezel Castle and offers a glimpse into the symbolic language of the 17th century. Note the coat of arms prominently displayed; a visual assertion of lineage, power and a connection to ancient virtues and ancestral achievements. The horses prancing in the foreground resonate with classical equestrian motifs, symbolizing nobility and control over primal instincts. Now, think of the equestrian statues of Roman emperors—powerful rulers immortalized on horseback. Here, the horses carry a similar echo, though softened, domesticated. This motif mirrors how symbols reappear across cultures. Consider how these symbols evolve, taking on new shades of meaning. This constant transformation reflects our shared cultural memory, reshaped by time and experience, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. The symbols are not static; they reappear, carrying echoes of the past while adapting to the present.