Geloof (Fides) 1593 - 1652

This engraving by Jacob Matham, created around 1600, depicts Fides, the allegorical figure of Faith. She stands with a chalice in her right hand and a cross resting on her shoulder. The chalice symbolizes the Eucharist, while the cross represents Christ’s sacrifice and the core of Christian belief. The image of the chalice can be traced back to ancient rituals of offering and communion. The cross, initially a symbol of Roman oppression, was transformed into an emblem of hope and salvation. This transformation embodies a powerful psychological shift—from suffering to redemption—deeply embedded in our collective consciousness. The reappearance of these symbols throughout history—in medieval icons, Renaissance paintings, and contemporary art—reveals their enduring power. Each era interprets and reinvents them, reflecting the shifting spiritual and cultural landscapes. This cyclical progression underscores the enduring human quest for meaning and the profound influence of these symbols on our psyche.