Ornament met twee Nereïden met een vaas c. 1701

This drawing shows an ornament with two nereids holding a vase, designed by Jacob Toorenvliet. The nereids, sea nymphs of Greek mythology, traditionally symbolize beauty and the bountiful nature of the sea. Here, they bear a vase atop a complex structure, echoing the caryatids of ancient temples. Caryatids were often priestesses of Artemis, linking the vase to concepts of chastity and women's mysteries. But, in this case, the vase overflows with vegetation. This recalls ancient cornucopias, symbols of abundance and nourishment. We observe a cyclical, non-linear progression: from divine figures supporting architecture to symbols of fertility and sustenance. The ornament with nereids, like the images from my Mnemosyne Atlas, demonstrates the enduring power of symbols to morph, resurface, and carry emotions across time.