Bereden soldaten in hun kwartier 1650 - 1660

This drawing, now at the Rijksmuseum, was made by Pieter de Molijn. It shows a scene teeming with soldiers in their camp, a common sight during the Dutch Golden Age with its frequent conflicts. Note the symbol of the horse, a recurring motif throughout history. Here, it represents not only military might but also the burdens of war, echoing the classical image of soldiers returning home, weary yet triumphant. These men on horseback are reminiscent of the equestrian statues of emperors, yet there's a sense of collective memory at play, portraying the shared experience of the common soldier rather than individual glory. Consider the image of the camp—a temporary refuge. This motif can be traced back to biblical scenes of flight and Exodus, a place of shelter and vulnerability. Just as these figures of biblical flight, soldiers carry the weight of their history with them, an emotional burden reflected in the transient nature of their encampment. This echoes through time, resurfacing in various forms as humanity seeks shelter amidst conflict.