S. Isidorus, S. Vincentius, S. Hyacinthus 1760

Francesco Bartolozzi etched this print of Saints Isidorus, Vincentius, and Hyacinthus in the late 18th century. A celestial glow bathes the figures, highlighting symbols of faith and sanctity: Saint Hyacinthus is marked by the radiant dove of the Holy Spirit above his head, and an angel floats by him with a monstrance. Consider how such symbols evolve. The dove, ancient symbol of peace, becomes, in Christian iconography, emblematic of divine presence. This transformation echoes motifs found in antiquity, where birds often signified messengers between the earthly and divine realms. Like the Greek 'psyche' represented as a butterfly or bird, the dove, too, carries a deep psychological weight, embodying the soul's yearning for the transcendent. Observe the gesture of supplication. Hands raised skyward, a posture seen across cultures. It is a primal expression of humanity, reflecting our enduring need for connection with the divine and for spiritual transcendence. This deeply embedded impulse resonates through time, perpetually reappearing in our art.