Ontwerp voor een kandelaar (No. 12) 1776 - 1823

Abraham Meertens created this drawing for a candlestick design, featuring classical motifs. The face at its center, reminiscent of ancient masks, whispers tales of theater and ritual, where faces served as conduits to gods and spirits. Observe how similar faces reappear throughout history, from the prows of ships warding off evil, to architectural ornaments guarding homes. Consider, for example, the masks of Greek tragedies. These weren't merely props; they amplified emotion, embodying archetypal characters. This echoes the candlestick's face, not just decorating but imbuing the object with a sense of presence, perhaps even protection. Such imagery taps into our collective memory, engaging us on a level deeper than mere aesthetics. The image is a non-linear progression of symbols, resurfacing and evolving.