Firemarks 1935 - 1942

This artwork presents a collection of firemarks, emblems of early fire insurance companies, rendered in a somber palette. Each symbol speaks volumes. Consider the tree: rooted yet vulnerable, it echoes the ancient motif of the Tree of Life, a universal symbol of growth and resilience, now juxtaposed with the ever-present threat of destruction. Observe the fire engine, a modern contraption encircled by protective words, reminiscent of ancient talismans. These symbols are not static; they evolve. The tree, once a symbol of cosmic order, is now a marker against urban chaos. The engine, a symbol of progress, relies on the vigilance of man. Each company hoped to stave off disaster by displaying a unique iconography. These emblems served as both a practical marker for insured properties and a psychological reassurance against the unpredictable forces of nature. These firemarks reflect our deep-seated need to control chaos, a theme that recurs throughout art history. They are modern-day talismans, reminding us of the cyclical nature of destruction and renewal, a timeless dance between order and chaos.