Matthew 1546

Sebald Beham etched this image of Matthew in 1546, where we see the saint with a radiant halo and a striking sword. The sword, an unusual attribute for Matthew, symbolizes his martyrdom, marking a departure from his peaceful image as an apostle. It is a symbol that stretches back through time, reappearing in various forms across cultures, often denoting justice, power, and sacrifice. Consider how the sword appears in classical antiquity, wielded by gods and heroes, or in medieval Christian art as an emblem of divine justice. This symbol, so deeply embedded in our collective consciousness, echoes through history. Its shifts in meaning reflecting our evolving relationship with power, morality, and faith. The sword, emotionally charged, is a powerful force engaging our deepest subconscious. Thus, the sword in Beham’s etching is not merely a tool of death but a complex symbol that transcends time, embodying themes of sacrifice, justice, and spiritual strength.