Drawing of the Stern of "La Réal" 19th century

This drawing depicts the stern of "La Réale", adorned with symbols of French royalty: the fleur-de-lis and the royal crown, emblems of power and divine right in the 17th century. The fleur-de-lis, initially associated with French monarchs since the Middle Ages, transcends mere heraldry. It embodies a complex interplay of religious and political authority. Think of the scepter topped with the fleur-de-lis, wielded by kings. Interestingly, the motif's roots may stem from ancient floral symbols of fertility and life, illustrating how symbols evolve, carrying echoes of earlier meanings. This cultural layering reminds us that symbols are never static; they are dynamic carriers of memory. It invites a deeper contemplation on the emotional and psychological impact of symbols, recognizing their enduring power to shape and reflect our collective consciousness. Indeed, the symbol is not a fixed entity, but a continuous thread that reappears, ever transformed, in the grand tapestry of history.