Courtyard of the Palazzo Vecchio, Florence 1800 - 1900

S. Cecchi’s watercolor captures the Courtyard of the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence, with its display of symbolic motifs, such as the fleur-de-lis. Notice the fleur-de-lis, prominently displayed; this symbol transcends mere decoration. Originally associated with French royalty, particularly the House of Bourbon, it embodies notions of sovereignty, perfection, and light. This symbol, however, made its way to Florence, becoming a civic emblem. One could consider it as a signifier of cultural appropriation, mirroring the complex dance of power and identity. Consider how potent symbols like the fleur-de-lis, and the sculptures on the columns, trigger shared cultural memories and subconscious associations. A constant evolution, the recurring image has resurfaced, evolved, and been imbued with new meanings across historical contexts, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level.