Portret van Bartholomeus Livianus 1549 - 1575

This engraving depicts Bartholomeus Livianus, a man of stature, clad in armor, holding a staff, framed within an oval border, its corners marked with a cross potent. The staff that Livianus clutches symbolizes authority, strength, and guidance, echoing the scepters of rulers and the staffs of religious figures across centuries. Consider how the cross potent, reminiscent of early Christian emblems, reappears through the ages, from the banners of crusaders to heraldic symbols, each time imbued with a renewed assertion of power and faith. The artist, though unknown, taps into a collective memory, stirring emotions tied to leadership, protection, and enduring power. This portrait isn't merely an image; it is a link in a chain, echoing through time, each symbol resonating with historical weight and psychological depth. We see in Livianus's steady gaze and firm grip a reflection of mankind's timeless quest for order and dominion.