Soldaat, van achteren 1649

This quick sketch of a soldier, seen from the back, was made by Harmen ter Borch around 1669. The figure is shown in simplified forms, with a sweeping hat and a visible sword at his side, which speaks to the period's militaristic culture. The presence of the sword is an ancient symbol, recurring across cultures from the Bronze Age to modern times. This weapon signifies authority, defense, and often, justice. Think of the archangel Michael wielding his flaming sword, or the countless heroes throughout history depicted with their blades, announcing power, protection, and the readiness to act. The soldier, in this light, transcends his immediate representation to symbolize deeper, collective notions of defense and valor. The drawing resonates with our innate understanding of the psychological role of such figures in society, evoking a sense of security but also, potentially, of conflict and aggression. The sword and the soldier are symbols that resurface continuously, evolving yet retaining their core essence.