Commode met bloemmotief 1772 - 1779

This drawing of a chest of drawers with floral motifs was made by Nicolas Dupin in the late 18th century. Notice the circular handles and the central floral medallion. The circle motif, seen here in the handles, has been a pervasive symbol throughout history. From ancient sun worship to the Ouroboros, the snake eating its own tail, the circle represents eternity and the cyclical nature of life. In medieval alchemy, the circle enclosed symbolic figures, offering protection and unity. These handles might seem merely decorative, but they subconsciously evoke this collective memory, engaging us on a deep, psychological level. Like the repeating forms in a labyrinth, they echo through different times, reflecting the enduring human quest for wholeness and continuity. The chest of drawers, a vessel for storing personal items, is adorned with circles, hinting at the cyclical nature of possessions and memories. This artwork, therefore, is not simply a representation of furniture; it is a subtle exploration of time, memory, and the persistent symbolism that shapes our understanding of the world.