Maria met kind 1834 - 1896

This engraving shows Mary and the Christ Child, halos radiating above their heads, symbols of divinity and grace. The apple motif above the Virgin is particularly compelling. We see it also in earlier works, such as Jan van Eyck's "Adam and Eve" panel in the Ghent Altarpiece, where it represents the Fall. Here, it is subtly repurposed, suggesting a connection to original sin, and, perhaps, to the Virgin’s role in redemption. A poignant contrast emerges when we consider Eve’s gesture of taking the apple versus Mary’s gesture of offering her child to the world. Such imagery engages us on a deeply emotional level. The archetype of the Madonna elicits a range of subconscious responses related to nurturing, sacrifice, and hope. This speaks to the non-linear progression of symbols, how motifs can evolve and resurface, taking on new meanings across time.