Christ on the cross 

Jacob de Wit rendered this image of Christ on the cross in chalk and gray ink. Here, the cross is not merely an instrument of execution, but a symbol of profound religious significance, embodying sacrifice and redemption. At the foot of the cross, a skull and bones rest, a stark memento mori, reminding us of our mortality. This symbol echoes throughout art history, appearing in vanitas paintings, where skulls signify the transience of life, and in depictions of saints, marking their triumph over death. The cross itself, we see it evolve from ancient solar symbols to a Christian emblem. The emotional weight carried by the image of the crucifixion engages viewers on a subconscious level, evoking feelings of sorrow, empathy, and awe. The symbol of the cross resurfaces and evolves through history, taking on new meanings in various contexts. It reminds us of the cyclical nature of symbols, and their capacity to evoke profound psychological responses.