Portret van Georgius Paulus de Mauleurier Langeron 1654 - 1722

This is Gaspar François Edelinck’s portrait of Georgius Paulus de Mauleurier Langeron. Here, the cross is prominent, suspended from Langeron’s neck, signaling faith and authority. The cross as a symbol is a potent carrier of meaning that evolves across cultures and eras. Its origin is rooted in ancient symbols of nature and sacrifice, later adopted by Christianity to signify redemption and salvation through Christ's crucifixion. The enduring motif of the cross reminds us of humanity’s continuous search for meaning and connection to the divine. The enduring presence of the cross in art reflects our collective psychological need for symbols that provide comfort, hope, and understanding in the face of life's inherent suffering and uncertainty. In portraits such as this, the cross can convey intense emotional states. Over time, the cross has resurfaced, evolved, and taken on new meanings in different historical contexts, maintaining its status as one of the most powerful and recognizable symbols.