Mis van de Heilige Gregorius met verschijning van Christus 1625 - 1670

Mattheus Borrekens created this engraving, "Mass of St. Gregory with the Appearance of Christ," capturing a moment of divine manifestation. The dominant symbol is, of course, Christ himself, elevated above the altar, holding the cross and surrounded by angels. He represents sacrifice, redemption, and divine presence. Consider the dove above Christ, a symbol of the Holy Spirit, evoking notions of divine inspiration and purity. This representation has its roots in ancient depictions of deities and the concept of divine messengers, surfacing even in classical antiquity with Eros or Cupid. The Mass itself, performed by St. Gregory, is heavy with emotional weight. Gregory's posture conveys humility and reverence, reflecting a collective desire for spiritual connection, a desire that goes back to ancient rituals and the eternal human search for meaning. The emotional power here is undeniable, creating a deep connection that echoes through time. These symbols have resurfaced, evolved, and taken on new meanings through history, reminding us of the non-linear progression of cultural memory.