Portret van graaf Louis Marie van Welderen 1782 - 1784

This engraving portrays Count Louis Marie van Welderen, and was made by Robbert Muys. Note the maritime symbols surrounding the Count’s portrait: an anchor, a compass, and an hourglass. These objects speak to the central themes of exploration, navigation, and the passage of time. Consider the anchor, an emblem of hope and steadfastness found in ancient Mediterranean cultures. We see it echoed in Christian iconography as a symbol of faith. Here, it appears alongside a compass, once vital for charting unknown territories. Both evoke a sense of adventure and control over destiny. Yet, the hourglass serves as a stark reminder of life’s transience, a memento mori urging us to reflect on our mortality. These symbols engage viewers on a deep subconscious level. They are not merely decorative; they represent humanity’s eternal dance with time, fate, and the yearning to overcome the unknown. The anchor and compass point to a future to be conquered, while the hourglass whispers of the inevitable end. This creates a tension that has resonated across centuries.