Heilige Franciscus van Assisi, de heilige Michaël en de Heilige Geest 1892 - 1901

These are sketches by Antoon Derkinderen for a depiction of Saint Francis of Assisi, Saint Michael, and the Holy Spirit. Look at the figure labeled for St. Michael. He is at once triumphant and vulnerable. Saint Michael, often depicted with wings and armor, embodies divine protection. A symbol that evolved from ancient winged deities, these figures transcended cultures, appearing in Mesopotamian and Egyptian art, each culture adapting the symbol to their spiritual needs. The imagery of the angel resonates with our primal need for protection, echoing through centuries in art, religion, and folklore. Consider the Holy Spirit which is represented as a dove, an ancient symbol of peace. It resurfaces in Christian iconography, transformed yet retaining its essence. The collective memory of the dove as a symbol of peace speaks to our shared human desire for serenity. In Derkinderen's vision, the Holy Spirit connects to the subconscious yearning for tranquility. These archetypes are not static; they are dynamic forces passed down through history.