Kruisbeeld c. 1858

This wooden crucifix, carved by de Bije, presents a profound image of sacrifice. The cross itself, predating Christianity, was a symbol of cosmic order, its intersection representing the meeting of the divine and earthly realms. Here, it bears the weight of Christ, his body contorted, embodying suffering. Yet, this image is more than mere historical representation; it is a vessel of collective memory. Consider the "Ecce Homo" depictions, where Christ is presented, bearing the marks of his suffering. This motif resonates with the pathos formula – the suffering man. The image of crucifixion transcends time, reappearing in various guises, each era imbuing it with new layers of meaning. The emotional power of this symbol engages viewers on a subconscious level, evoking feelings of empathy and catharsis. The symbol of the cross has an enduring quality. Its cyclical progression through history demonstrates how potent symbols never truly disappear; instead, they resurface, evolve, and continue to shape our cultural landscape.