Sarcofaag van Hendrik Casimir II: voet gedecoreerd met wapentrofeëen 1680 - 1700

This print by Petrus Aeneae depicts the foot of Hendrik Casimir II’s sarcophagus, teeming with symbols of power and remembrance. Lions, guardians of tombs since antiquity, bear shields displaying heraldic emblems, proclaiming the lineage and status of the deceased. Above, trophies of war—armour, drums, and weapons—are a classical declaration of military triumph, echoing the Roman tradition of celebrating martial prowess. These motifs are not merely decorative; they are potent symbols, evoking the weight of history and the projection of power. Consider the lion, a recurring motif across cultures, from the ancient Near East to Renaissance Europe. Its presence here is both a nod to classical tradition and a reinforcement of princely authority. This symbol resonates deeply, engaging our collective memory of strength, courage, and dominion. The image taps into our subconscious, stirring primal emotions tied to power and mortality.