Ware liefdadigheid volgt de leer van Christus 1550

Dirck Volckertsz Coornhert created this engraving, "True Charity Follows the Doctrine of Christ", in the 16th century. We see Charity as a maternal figure, a clear derivation of the classical Venus, surrounded by children, symbols of love, care, and fertility. Notice how she holds two chalices, each topped with flaming hearts and skulls, echoing the same themes of life and death. This combination represents spiritual and carnal love, a balance between divine dedication and earthly passion. It reminds me of similar imagery from ancient Roman art, where Venus was often depicted with her son Cupid, symbolizing the eternal cycle of love and renewal. But there is something more here. The skulls could also be Vanitas symbols, reminding us of the transience of life and the importance of spiritual devotion. This complex interplay of symbols speaks to the power of images to engage us on a deeply psychological level, stirring collective memories and subconscious associations. These images resonate with an emotional intensity that transcends time. The maternal figure is far older than the Old Masters. It emerges, evolves, and resurfaces, taking on new meanings across time.