The Virgin holding the infant Christ, a circular composition, after Reni 1595 - 1645

This is an engraving of the Virgin holding the infant Christ, in a circular composition, after Reni. The figures of Mary and Jesus, framed within a circle, remind us of ancient Roman portrait medallions, echoing classical ideals of beauty and virtue. The tender embrace, the soft gaze—these gestures resonate across centuries, appearing in countless depictions of maternal love. Consider, for instance, the ancient Egyptian goddess Isis cradling her son Horus; a similar motif reflecting the universal human experience of motherhood and protection. Yet, here, the Christian narrative imbues these gestures with deeper spiritual significance. The Madonna becomes not just a mother, but a symbol of divine grace, her embrace a promise of salvation. This visual language, laden with cultural memory, engages us on a subconscious level, evoking feelings of comfort, hope, and a connection to something greater than ourselves. Thus, the image resurfaces, evolving, and taking on new meanings, each time colored by the historical context and the enduring power of human emotion.