Keizer Hendrik II de Heilige te paard in een veldslag 1835

Theodoor Schaepkens' etching portrays the Holy Roman Emperor Henry II in the thick of battle. Notice the emperor's raised hand, a gesture resonating through centuries. It echoes the ad locutio, the Roman orator's address, repurposed by emperors and generals to command and inspire. Consider its evolution: from ancient marble statues to Renaissance paintings, this gesture signifies leadership and authority. Yet, it is not merely a symbol of power. Deep within, it stirs something primal, evoking our collective memory of leaders who guide and protect. This deeply ingrained association affects how we see this image, and how it engages the viewer on a subconscious level. The raised hand is more than a command. It embodies the hope for victory and the will to guide one's people through conflict. It is a testament to how symbols persist, evolve, and continue to exert influence over our perceptions.