Portret van kardinaal János Scitovszky after 1853

This is Nicola Moneta's portrait of Cardinal János Scitovszky. Note the Cardinal's cross, a potent symbol, not just of faith, but of authority and sacrifice. The cross has served as a profound emblem throughout history, predating Christianity, yet forever linked to the crucifixion. Observe how the Cardinal’s cross echoes the Imperial Roman ‘labarum’, a vexillum that Constantine I bore in battle after his alleged vision of the cross. The labarum’s appropriation of a religious symbol for military and political power mirrors the church’s own earthly authority. We see this symbol reappear throughout history, a constant reminder of the shifting tides of power and belief. The image of the cross is a striking example of how symbols evolve, are re-contextualized, and adapted, triggering deep-seated cultural memories. It is a vivid illustration of how certain images are rooted deep within our collective consciousness, resurfacing and adapting through time.