Nahum 1613

Cornelis Galle I created this engraving of Nahum, one of the minor prophets of the Old Testament. His closed eyes and the scroll he holds are not mere details but symbols deeply rooted in cultural memory. The scroll, emblem of knowledge and divine revelation, has appeared throughout history, from ancient Roman depictions of philosophers to medieval Christian art featuring evangelists. It embodies wisdom passed down through generations. The prophet’s closed eyes evoke contemplation and inner vision, reflecting a state of profound receptivity to divine messages. This posture, reminiscent of ancient seers, is a visual expression of Nahum's prophetic role. Consider how the act of closing one’s eyes transcends time; it recurs in images of meditation and mourning. This gesture resonates with a collective human experience—a retreat from the external world to seek deeper truths within. In Nahum's case, it amplifies the psychological weight of his prophecy, engaging viewers on a subconscious level. The scroll and closed eyes are not static symbols, but dynamic elements that resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings.