Regina Cordium 1860

Dante Gabriel Rossetti created this oil painting, Regina Cordium, meaning "Queen of Hearts", a title rich with symbolic weight. The heart motif, prominently displayed as a pendant, has traversed centuries, evolving from ancient associations with the seat of emotions to its now ubiquitous symbol of love. Look at the background filled with hearts: Rossetti’s choice evokes not just romantic love, but also the deeper, more profound aspects of human connection and the wellspring of compassion. Consider the violet she holds. This flower, often linked to modesty and faithfulness, appears in various forms throughout art history, from medieval tapestries to Renaissance portraits, each time subtly shifting in meaning yet retaining its essence. Its presence here speaks to the complex layers of virtue and emotion Rossetti attributes to his subject. The emotional depth of Rossetti’s Regina Cordium lies in these symbols that tap into our collective consciousness, engaging us on a level that transcends mere aesthetics. The cyclical progression of the heart motif continues to resurface, evolving and taking on new meanings across time.