Vrouw uit Perotte 1576

This engraving by Antoni van Leest, dating back to the late 16th century, portrays a woman from Perotte, presenting us with a fascinating array of symbols. Notice the flower she delicately holds. Across centuries and cultures, floral emblems have conveyed diverse meanings, from love and beauty to transience and mourning. In classical antiquity, flowers were associated with goddesses of spring and fertility. Yet, as Christianity spread, they often took on religious significance, representing purity, martyrdom, or divine love. Think of the Virgin Mary depicted with lilies. What is particularly striking is how such symbols evolve, adapting to the anxieties and aspirations of each era. Even today, flowers remain potent vehicles for expressing emotions and cultural values, a testament to the enduring power of images to resonate with our collective memory.