Portret van Willem Vleertman 1742

This engraving portrays Willem Vleertman, and it encapsulates the spirit of its time through powerful symbols. The most striking is the elaborate wig, a symbol of status and power, reminiscent of the Baroque era's theatricality. But observe also the coat of arms below the portrait. These emblems were not merely decorative; they signaled lineage, valor, and identity. The flags, stars, and crosses, each bears a history, harkening back to medieval heraldry, a visual language meant to convey complex narratives of family and allegiance. In ancient times, the cross has appeared in various cultural contexts, symbolizing different forms of power. These visual cues reflect society's deep-seated need to categorize and commemorate. They represent an era where symbols weren't just seen, they were read. And today, they are still capable of engaging our subconscious, reminding us of the cyclical nature of power and representation in society.