Discover the meanings of various political symbols used in the 18th century to convey revolutionary ideals, including the broken chain and the red Phrygian cap.

Reading Political Symbols in the 18th Century

• • During the 18th century, most people could not read or write.
  • Images and symbols were commonly used to communicate important ideas.
  • The painting by Le Barbier conveys the content of the Declaration of Rights through various symbols:



• Symbols and Their Meanings
  • Snake Biting Its Tail to Form a Ring:
    • Symbol of Eternity.
    • A ring has neither beginning nor end.
  • Sceptre:
    • Symbol of royal power.
  • The Eye Within a Triangle Radiating Light:
    • The all-seeing eye represents knowledge.
    • The rays of the sun symbolize driving away the clouds of ignorance.
  • The Bundle of Rods or Fasces:
    • One rod can be easily broken, but not an entire bundle.
    • Symbolizes that strength lies in unity.
  • The Broken Chain:
    • Chains were used to fetter slaves.
    • A broken chain symbolizes the act of becoming free.
  • Red Phrygian Cap:
    • A cap worn by a slave upon becoming free.
  • Blue-White-Red:
    • The national colors of France.
  • The Winged Woman:
    • Personification of the law.
  • The Law Tablet:
    • Represents that the law is the same for all.
    • All individuals are equal before the law.