Het eerste kwartier van het wapen van M.A. de Ruyter after 1677

This is the first quarter of the Coat of Arms of M.A. de Ruyter, made by an anonymous artist at an unknown date. It shows a shield, topped with a crown, divided by a grey cross that stands out against the red background. Notice how the three-dimensional cross dominates the composition, giving a sense of structure and order. The relief of the cross and the crown create a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, emphasizing the materiality of the object. The visual elements, such as the stark contrast between the red background and the grey cross, can be interpreted using semiotics, where the colors and symbols may represent abstract concepts and historical meanings. The crown is a straightforward symbol of royalty and authority, while the cross, depending on its design and context, may refer to religious or military meanings. The artwork's strength lies in its formal design elements that invite us to decode its symbolic language. It shows how form is not just about aesthetics, but also about communicating complex ideas.