The Resurrection, from "The Passion of Christ" 1610 - 1700

Nicolas Cochin created this print of "The Resurrection," part of "The Passion of Christ," using engraving techniques during the 17th century. The risen Christ ascends triumphantly, holding a banner of victory, while an angel gestures towards Him, bathed in divine light. Below, Roman soldiers are scattered, overwhelmed by the event. The motif of resurrection isn’t unique; in ancient pagan traditions, deities like Osiris also experienced renewal, reflecting a deep-seated human yearning for overcoming death. Consider the psychological weight of the angel’s gesture. It is a symbol of revelation and divine intervention. The angel is a messenger, echoing figures in ancient Greek art, like Hermes, who bridges the mortal and divine realms. These recurring symbols tap into our collective memory, engaging viewers on a profound, subconscious level, evoking hope and spiritual awakening. This visual language reminds us that symbols aren't static; they evolve and resurface across cultures and epochs, carrying emotional and spiritual weight.