Monsterinsect, sprinkhanen en vlinders 1581 - 1600

This print, made by an anonymous artist, presents a fascinating array of insects alongside a peculiar winged monster. Butterflies, traditionally symbols of transformation and the soul, flutter above grasshoppers and other insects. Juxtaposed with these naturalistic elements is a fantastical creature, a chimera with reptilian scales, feline paws, and feathered wings. This winged monster is of particular interest. We find such hybrid creatures throughout history, from the griffin of ancient mythology to the medieval gargoyle. These figures often represent the fusion of opposing forces. Consider how the dragon embodies both the benevolent and destructive aspects of nature. The monster in this print, too, evokes a sense of primordial power, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. The image serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of symbols and the powerful, often unsettling, ways in which they resurface and evolve across time. They are imprinted in our collective memory, adapting to new contexts while retaining traces of their archaic origins.