Sacrificial Baptism 2020

This is Daria Theodora's Sacrificial Baptism, painted in the 20th Century, a delicate rendering of sacrifice and purification. The moon, a symbol of cyclical renewal and feminine power, casts its glow upon a scene steeped in ancient ritual. The act of baptism, historically a cleansing rite, is here infused with a sense of sacrifice, suggested by the prone figure and the surrounding flora. The image resonates with the archaic, recalling the myth of Iphigenia, whose sacrifice ensured safe passage for the Greek fleet. Consider the 'baptism' or placement into water. We find echoes of this motif in ancient Egyptian art, where rebirth was tied to the sacred Nile. This act transcends mere ablution; it is a profound act of transformation, a descent into the depths from which new life emerges. The vibrant flora, reminiscent of Korean folk art, further enriches the emotional undertones. The enduring power of this image lies in its ability to tap into our collective memory, engaging viewers on a subconscious level. It speaks to the timeless human need for purification and the cyclical nature of sacrifice and renewal.