Life of Christ. Eglise Saint-Sulpice de Fougères 1919

Ludovic Alleaume’s stained glass artwork, 'Life of Christ' in the Église Saint-Sulpice de Fougères, is dominated by the image of Christ, often depicted with a halo, a symbol of divine light, and a raised hand, a gesture of blessing or teaching. This gesture is reminiscent of ancient Roman orators, their arms outstretched to command attention, a visual rhetoric adopted and adapted by Christianity. We see echoes of this pose in countless religious artworks throughout the ages, from Byzantine mosaics to Renaissance paintings. Consider, too, how this same gesture appears in secular contexts – a leader addressing a crowd, an artist conducting an orchestra – its power undiminished. The symbolism of light in this piece is also particularly potent, suggesting not just divinity but also enlightenment and hope. It is a primal symbol, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level with its promise of salvation. This non-linear progression of symbols resurfaces, evolving, and taking on new meanings in different historical contexts.