Watch 1700 - 1750

This watch, made by Jean Romilly, presents a scene rich with symbolic weight. We observe a woman breastfeeding an older man. This image is derived from the ancient Roman story of Pero, who secretly breastfeeds her imprisoned, starving father, Cimon, saving his life. This powerful, albeit disturbing, act of filial devotion reverberates through the ages, appearing in various artistic forms. The motif transcends its literal interpretation, becoming a symbol of sacrifice, compassion, and the primal bond between parent and child. The act of breastfeeding, universally associated with nurturing, is here intertwined with themes of aging and dependence, creating a complex, emotionally charged dynamic. The viewer is confronted with the raw vulnerability of human existence, sparking subconscious reflections on the cyclical nature of life and the ever-shifting roles within familial relationships. This unusual motif has resurfaced and taken on new layers of significance across time, continuously engaging our collective memory and deepest emotional reserves.