Simon c. 1622 - 1642

This etching, "Simon," by Andries Both, made around the 17th century, depicts an elderly man leaning on a saw. The saw, an unusual attribute for a saint, makes us question its symbolic weight. In Christian iconography, saints are often identified by tools of their martyrdom, but the saw is more commonly associated with tradesmen. Its presence here suggests a potential connection to manual labor. This connection between the spiritual and the mundane reminds me of similar instances where everyday objects gain symbolic importance, reflecting a deep, shared cultural memory. Consider how Saint Joseph, often depicted with carpentry tools, bridges the divine and the earthly. The saw evokes not only physical labor but also the potential for creation, destruction, and transformation. This ambiguity can be a powerful force, engaging viewers on a subconscious level. The non-linear progression of this symbol, with its shifting meanings across different historical contexts, invites us to reflect on the evolving relationship between labor, spirituality, and cultural memory.