Treppe in einer mit Karyatiden geschmückten Säulenhalle 

This architectural drawing of a hall adorned with Caryatids was made by Antonio Roli in the 17th century. The Caryatids, figures of women used as supporting columns, are a dominant feature. Rooted in ancient Greek architecture, they bear the weight of the entablature on their heads, symbolizing strength and endurance. We can trace the motif of supportive female figures back to ancient Egypt and later in the Renaissance. The female form is transformed from sacred to architectural. Consider how these figures resurface, evolving from religious idols into decorative elements. There is an emotional tension in the subjugation of a female form forced to carry a weight on her head, engaging viewers with a feeling of empathy and awe. The image evokes a sense of historical continuity, where the echoes of ancient forms resonate through time, transforming and adapting to new cultural contexts. It highlights the cyclical nature of art and the enduring power of symbols to convey meaning across generations.