Man-of-War 1622 - 1707

This drawing of a man-of-war was made by Willem van de Velde the Elder in the 17th century using pen and gray ink. The masts stand tall, bearing crosses, a symbol deeply rooted in Christian iconography, representing faith, sacrifice, and navigation. Consider how the cross, originally a symbol of religious devotion, is here adapted into the very structure that guides ships across the seas. It’s a fascinating transformation—the spiritual made functional. This echoes motifs found in ancient cultures where symbols of power and divinity were integrated into tools of war. The cross, in this context, reminds us of its presence across human history, and its endurance, evolving to fit new needs while carrying echoes of its sacred origins. It is a testament to our continuous search for meaning and guidance, whether on land or at sea.