Portret van Cornelis Evertsen 1760 - 1761

Jacob Houbraken created this engraving of Cornelis Evertsen, Vice-Admiral of Zeeland. Here, armor is not merely a functional garment but a powerful symbol. It represents valor, duty, and protection, echoing the classical heroes of antiquity. This motif of the armored leader can be traced through centuries, from Roman sculptures to Renaissance portraits. It is charged with cultural memory, evoking a sense of strength and authority. Yet, over time, the symbolism of armor shifts. No longer just battlefield attire, here it signifies leadership and the weight of responsibility. The portrayal of the Vice-Admiral as a protector of the realm taps into collective desires for security and order. It also embodies a deep, perhaps subconscious, longing for heroic figures to guide and safeguard society. This archetype engages viewers on an emotional level, speaking to a primal need for leadership and protection. The non-linear progression of symbols of power continues to influence our perceptions of leadership, evolving with each age.