Kroning van Maria c. 1586 - 1612

This engraving by Cornelis Galle I, made around the early 17th century, depicts the Virgin Mary being crowned. The composition is dominated by potent symbols: the crown, of course, signifies sovereignty, and the orb beneath the Christ child symbolizes earthly power. It’s fascinating how the motif of a ruler being crowned appears across cultures and eras. Think of ancient Roman emperors receiving laurel wreaths or medieval kings being anointed with holy oil. Here, the Christ Child bestows the crown, an inversion of earthly power dynamics, suggesting divine authority supersedes temporal rule. The orb he stands on reminds us of classical depictions of emperors holding globes, a symbol of world dominion. Yet, this image transforms the symbol into one of spiritual leadership. Such symbols tap into our collective unconscious. The act of crowning evokes deep-seated desires for order, recognition, and transcendence. These images resonate not just as religious icons but as powerful reminders of our shared human yearning for meaning and authority. The cyclical progression of symbols like the orb and the crown demonstrates their enduring ability to adapt and resonate across time.