Dem Heiligen Lukas erscheint die Jungfrau mit dem Kind 

Karl Ballenberger's drawing presents Saint Luke, believed to be the author of the third Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles. Luke is often symbolized by an ox or bull, and here, it lies beside him with wings. This depiction comes from the ancient vision of the prophet Ezekiel, who saw four creatures representing the Evangelists: a man (Matthew), a lion (Mark), an ox (Luke), and an eagle (John). Note how Luke is portrayed with a halo, writing at his desk as the Virgin Mary and Child appear in the window, inspiring him. This motif of divine inspiration is reminiscent of ancient muses guiding poets, yet the ox has far older roots. From the Egyptian Apis bull to the Cretan Minotaur, the bull is often linked to sacrifice, strength, and fertility, embodying a primal, psychological power that resonates across cultures. These symbols persist, evolving through cultural memory, revealing the complex layers of meaning embedded within visual imagery.