Scènes uit het leven van Heilige Franciscus van Assisi 1734

This engraving by Bernard Picart, made around the late 17th to early 18th century, depicts scenes from the life of Saint Francis of Assisi, filled with rich symbolism. Observe Francis kneeling before a globe: it represents his mission to protect the world and the Church. This image is laden with the weight of responsibility, a burden he willingly carries. The globe itself, an ancient symbol of dominion, here transforms into an emblem of spiritual stewardship. Compare this motif with Atlas bearing the heavens: both figures support a sphere, yet their burdens differ vastly. Atlas is condemned, while Francis is consecrated. This recalls similar images throughout time, echoing themes of sacrifice, duty, and the weight of the world. It’s as if the collective unconscious remembers these burdens, shaping and reshaping them across centuries. These images resonate deeply because they tap into our shared memories and primal fears, reminding us of our own struggles and aspirations. The cyclical return of such imagery speaks to the enduring human condition and the timeless search for meaning.