Blad met uiteenlopende encyclopedische voorstellingen 1784

This encyclopedic sheet was made by Johann David Schleuen around the 18th century, displaying various scenes from daily life. Notice the first image at the top left: a candle burning on a table. The image of the candle, with its flickering light piercing the darkness, is a potent symbol of knowledge, hope, and the transience of life. Throughout art history, we see the candle motif re-emerge. Think of Caravaggio's tenebrism, where light—often from a single candle—illuminates the central figures amidst deep shadows. This is not just a matter of aesthetics but a psychological play, with the light revealing truth and the shadow concealing the unknown. The candle, then, becomes a metaphor for consciousness itself. The candle’s flame can be linked with the human soul, as it flickers and dances, reflecting our emotional states. This emblem speaks to our collective memory, the way we seek enlightenment, and how we confront the shadows within ourselves. The motif persists, proving its enduring emotional and psychological resonance across centuries.