Astolfo kehrt, von Johannes dem Evangelist geführt, mit dem Verstande Rolands vom Mond zurück c. 1823

Julius Schnorr von Carolsfeld created this drawing, Astolfo kehrt, von Johannes dem Evangelist geführt, mit dem Verstande Rolands vom Mond zurück, in the 19th century. At the center, we see a regal woman holding a lance, a symbol of power and authority, crowned with what appears to be divine light. This figure draws from a rich tapestry of mythological and religious iconography, echoing images of Justice, Sapientia or even the Virgin Mary, where a lance may be replaced with a sword or scepter. To the left of the crowned woman, the figure of St. John, absorbed in a book, with an eagle behind him. The eagle here is not merely decorative, but a symbol of insight, representing the Saint’s ability to perceive divine truths. This motif can be found across centuries, from Roman imperial art to Christian illuminated manuscripts, each time adapting to new cultural contexts. These symbols speak to our collective memory, resonating with the deep-seated human desire for justice, wisdom, and spiritual enlightenment. It's a testament to how symbols evolve, yet retain a core emotional power that continues to engage us across time.