Uitstorting van de Heilige Geest (Pinksteren) 1629

This woodcut by Christoffel van Sichem II illustrates the Pentecost, or the descent of the Holy Spirit. Above the Virgin Mary and the apostles hovers the Holy Trinity, the Father and Son flanking a dove, which is the symbol of the Holy Spirit. Flames dance above the heads of those present, representing the divine presence. In early Christian art, we often see this motif used as a sign of divine favor or inspiration, reminiscent of the classical depiction of the genius, or guiding spirit, that was often figured as a winged figure hovering behind the head of an individual. In psychological terms, the symbol resonates with the collective unconscious, embodying a yearning for higher knowledge. The symbol of the flame can be traced through history, where its representation has evolved across different religious and secular contexts, symbolizing divinity, knowledge, and purification. This emotional intensity makes the image more than just a depiction, it's an experience. It is a spark that, like the divine flame, transcends time.