Maria en het Christuskind op een wereldbol omgeven door engelen 1827 - 1891

Johannes Bosboom rendered this graphite sketch, Maria en het Christuskind op een wereldbol omgeven door engelen, capturing Mary and the Christ Child atop a globe, encircled by angels. The globe symbolizes dominion and cosmic power, an ancient emblem adopted by Christianity to signify Christ's universal reign. Consider how this motif echoes through time: From the Roman emperors holding orbs as symbols of earthly power, to the Renaissance depictions of monarchs with globes, the orb has always represented control and authority. In Bosboom’s sketch, however, the globe is repurposed. It's no longer a symbol of earthly dominion, but of spiritual authority. The image engages our collective memory, triggering subconscious associations with power, divinity, and the cyclical nature of symbols. The emotional resonance is palpable: Mary and the Christ Child, cradled by angels on a globe, evoke a sense of hope and the promise of redemption. This tableau is not merely a depiction, but an emotional and cultural touchstone, echoing through the ages.