Promotieprent voor Joannes Baptista a Pfeiffersberg (blad voor linksboven) 1699

Arnold van Westerhout created this print to promote Joannes Baptista a Pfeiffersberg. Notice the abundance of symbols, like the angel with a trumpet, which traditionally announces important news. Such figures carry the weight of centuries; the trumpet-blowing angel has roots in classical antiquity. The figure is related to the Greek goddess Nike and Roman Victoria, winged messengers of victory and divine will. Over time, the symbol transformed, Christianized to herald divine announcements in Renaissance paintings. Consider the cherubs, symbols of innocence, here holding a banner; the trophies of war, signifying strength and victory. The drapery partially covering the scene is suggestive of something being revealed or unveiled, building anticipation. These motifs are not static relics, but a powerful force engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. This non-linear progression of symbols resurfaces, evolves, and takes on new meanings throughout time, adapted for the purpose of glorifying Joannes Baptista a Pfeiffersberg.