Madonna op de maansikkel. 1520 - 1562

This small engraving presents the Virgin Mary with the Christ child standing on a crescent moon. This is a typical depiction of the Immaculate Conception that emerged in the 15th century, blending religious dogma with potent visual symbols. The moon, an ancient symbol of the feminine, has long been associated with cycles of birth, death, and rebirth. Here, the Virgin Mary's triumph over the lunar sphere signifies her purity and divine status, evoking powerful emotions of reverence and awe. It is fascinating to observe how the motif of the moon underfoot—once associated with pagan goddesses—was assimilated into Christian iconography, carrying with it echoes of earlier beliefs. Observe how this symbol has evolved through history, reappearing in various forms across cultures, from ancient lunar deities to modern allegorical representations. This image speaks to the cyclical nature of symbols, resurfacing, evolving, and taking on new meanings in different contexts.