Blad B: eerste en tweede praalwagen, 1767 1767

Franciscus Heylbrouck’s etching from 1767, showcases elaborate parade wagons, brimming with symbols of power and virtue. Dominating the scene is a procession of figures, including one holding a sign with the inscription "Vivat," underscoring the theme of triumph. The iconography here is not just decorative, it speaks to a deep-seated human need for spectacle and order. The peacock, perched atop one of the floats, traditionally symbolizes immortality and pride. This motif resonates with ancient Roman art, where the peacock was associated with Juno, queen of the gods, and its feathers were believed to be incorruptible. The enduring presence of the peacock across cultures reveals our persistent fascination with themes of renewal and self-display. Consider the symbolic journey of the sun and the phoenix rising, depicted on the bottom-right float, which evoke both cyclical patterns and the subconscious realm of dreams and collective memory. These symbols are cultural artifacts charged with psychological energy. The cyclical nature of these symbols is a potent reminder of how history repeats itself, yet each iteration imbues these ancient motifs with new meanings.