Twee staande engelen 1825 - 1883

This delicate etching by Theodoor Schaepkens presents us with two standing angels. The primary figure, draped and winged, holds a finger to its lips in a gesture of silence. The ‘shushing’ angel can be traced back to the Hellenistic god Harpocrates, who was worshipped for protection and secrets, with a gesture that was initially meant to represent youth. This symbol traveled to the early Christian era to become incorporated into religious iconography, representing the virtues of discretion and obedience, as the angel guard secrets between heaven and earth. This act of silence is a recurring motif, found in many forms throughout art history, each reflecting a deep-seated human need for quiet contemplation, engaging viewers on a subconscious level. Through Schaepkens's work, we witness the cyclical progression of this motif, as it resurfaces, evolves, and takes on new meanings, demonstrating the intricate dance between cultural memory and artistic expression.