Twee friezen met wapentrofeëen before 1732

These two friezes with war trophies were created by an anonymous artist. They show figures and objects associated with military victory. Note the classical figures, winged allegories of fame, weapons, shields, and bound captives, all proclaiming triumph. The inclusion of bound captives is a recurring motif that can be traced back to ancient Roman triumphal arches. We see them, for example, in Trajan’s Column. This potent symbol evolved through the Renaissance and Baroque periods, often employed to underscore the victor's power and the vanquished's submission. The emotional resonance of such imagery lies in its ability to tap into collective memories of conflict and domination. The recurring appearance of such scenes speaks to a deep-seated psychological need to assert dominance and commemorate victory. As we follow the progression of these symbols through history, we can see how they resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings in different historical contexts.