Marmeren beeld van een vrouw in een gewaad met gekruiste armen. c. 1878 - 1881

This is a photograph by Louis-Emile Durandelle of a marble sculpture depicting a woman in robes with crossed arms. The gesture of crossed arms, seemingly simple, echoes through time. It speaks of introspection, defensiveness, or even mourning. This motif is found in ancient funerary art, adorning sarcophagi, as well as Christian iconography in depictions of the Virgin Mary at the crucifixion. Observe how the folds of her robe, reminiscent of classical antiquity, contrast with the stillness of her pose. The crossed arms, a symbol laden with cultural weight, transform the sculpture into more than just an aesthetic form. They evoke a deep, subconscious connection to our shared human experience. The recurring use of this symbol across different epochs reveals a non-linear progression. It has resurfaced, evolved, and taken on new meanings in various historical contexts. This potent gesture speaks of the enduring power of cultural memory, engaging us on a profound and often unconscious level.