Titelpagina voor een vertaling van het Nieuwe Testament in de Indiase taal 1731

This is the title page, made by Bernard Picart around 1731, for a translation of the New Testament into an Indian language. The most striking symbol is the open book at the top, representing divine knowledge and revelation. This motif extends back to ancient depictions of scrolls and tablets, embodying wisdom and authority. We see it again and again in various sacred texts across cultures. Consider how the image of an open book has evolved from ancient symbols of knowledge to modern representations of learning, each time embedded with a sense of enlightenment and understanding. The inclusion of heraldic symbols adds layers of meaning related to patronage and power, subtly influencing the viewer's perception of authority and legitimacy. This deeply ingrained symbol engages viewers on a subconscious level, evoking a sense of reverence. It is a powerful force, rooted in collective memory, that transcends time and culture.