Heilige Juan Diego zegent een jongen terwijl Christus aan hem verschijnt 1646

Simon Guillain’s engraving captures Saint Juan Diego, with Christ appearing above him blessing a young boy. The composition is steeped in symbolism. Juan Diego's gesture of blessing echoes the divine blessing above, a motif that has been repeated across eras. Consider, for instance, the raised hands of orant figures in early Christian catacombs, expressing supplication and divine connection. This same gesture reappears in countless depictions of saints and deities, each time colored by the cultural and psychological landscape of its time. The act of blessing, deeply rooted in the human psyche, transcends mere religious doctrine. It taps into our collective desire for protection and affirmation, evoking a visceral sense of hope and solace. This yearning is a powerful force, engaging viewers on a subconscious level. The symbolism is not linear, however. It progresses in a cyclical way, resurfacing and evolving across history, taking on new meanings in various contexts.