De exercitie met schild en spies: de soldaat legt de spies naast zijn rechtervoet op de grond (nr. 16), 1618 1616 - 1618

This engraving, created in 1618 by Adam van Breen, depicts a soldier practicing with a shield and spear. The spear, grounded beside his foot, is a potent symbol that transcends mere military equipment. Consider the grounded spear – an emblem not only of martial prowess but also, paradoxically, of momentary rest or strategic pause. This gesture echoes in classical antiquity, where the act of planting a spear could signify both claiming territory and a temporary cessation of conflict. Think of the classical sculptures of victorious warriors, their spears often resting as a symbol of achieved dominance. In the soldier's downward gaze, we see more than just a snapshot of military training. It’s a visual echo of introspection amidst conflict, a moment of contemplation before the next engagement. This image captures a cyclical nature: preparation, pause, and inevitable return to action. This symbol will continue to evolve, embodying new facets of human experience across time.