Allegorische voorstelling van de overeenkomst tussen religie en filosofie, of het geloof en de rede 1708

This print by Bernard Picart allegorizes the harmony between religion and philosophy. Two female figures unite, embodying faith and reason. Faith, on the right, stands elevated, near an altar inscribed with ‘PIETAS ALTERA.’ The gesture of clasped hands resonates deeply. We see it echoed through the ages – in Roman marriage iconography symbolizing concordia, or even in contemporary political imagery signifying treaties and alliances. Yet, observe how its meaning subtly shifts. Here, it speaks to a deeper, more profound union. The rainbow in the background is also worth mentioning. Consider the rainbow as a symbol, and how in the Old Testament it signifies God’s covenant with humanity after the flood. It is a visual metaphor of hope and reconciliation. These symbols are not static; they evolve, adapt, and resurface in unexpected ways. In the ebb and flow of cultural memory, we see how images persist, carrying forward echoes of the past.