Illustratie voor 'Den Arbeid van Mars' van Allain Manesson Mallet 1672

Romeyn de Hooghe made this illustration for Allain Manesson Mallet's "Den Arbeid van Mars." Consider the baton wielded by the officer. This symbol of authority, a short staff, connects him to a long line of leaders depicted throughout history. Think back to the scepters of ancient rulers, or even the simple staffs carried by religious figures. The baton serves as a signifier of command, representing not just physical power but also the right to direct and control. Notice, however, how its meaning shifts. In ancient Egypt, a scepter might represent divine power. In a military context like this, it becomes a tool of earthly authority. This evolution mirrors the changing nature of power itself, adapting to different cultural and historical needs. Observe the collective memory at play, how symbols resurface, their meanings transformed yet still echoing the past.