An angel addressing the three Magi 

This brown ink wash drawing by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo depicts an angel addressing the three Magi. Angels, as messengers of the divine, often appear in art to bridge the earthly and the celestial realms. Here, the angel's presence signifies a pivotal moment of revelation for the wise men. Consider the angel's pointing gesture; a motif that transcends time, appearing in classical art to signify direction or divine intervention. In antiquity, a similar gesture was present in images of Hermes, guiding souls. This motif, laden with cultural memory, evokes a sense of guidance, subtly influencing our perception of the scene, and creating a deep subconscious connection. The dreamlike quality of this sketch engages viewers on a deep, subconscious level, prompting reflection on themes of faith, wisdom, and divine guidance. The journey of symbols is never linear. They resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings across history.