Staande heilige 1615 - 1676

This print, made by Theodor Matham, depicts a standing saint, bathed in divine light. Observe the palm frond he holds, a symbol of triumph over death, reminiscent of ancient Roman victory celebrations, yet here repurposed for Christian martyrdom. Above, cherubs offer a laurel wreath, an emblem of honor and immortality since classical times, now signifying sainthood. Note how the saint’s raised hand echoes gestures found in ancient oratory, a visual language understood across centuries. The saint's garments and the bishop's mitre beside him denote his ecclesiastical status, anchoring him firmly within the Church hierarchy. Yet, the image stirs deeper currents. These symbols, laden with history, evoke collective memories. The palm, the wreath, the gesture—each element is a cultural fragment, passed down and reshaped by time, resonating within us, a powerful force engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level.