The Virgin and Child with Saints and Donors (The Donne Triptych) 1478

Here we have Hans Memling's "The Virgin and Child with Saints and Donors", also known as the "Donne Triptych". Observe the lamb held by Saint John the Baptist on the left panel. This is no mere pastoral accessory; it is the Agnus Dei, the Lamb of God, an emblem of Christ's sacrifice and purity. This symbol has ancient roots, harking back to sacrificial rites meant to appease the gods. But consider, how has this symbol persisted? The lamb, a signifier of innocence and vulnerability, transcends its religious context, appearing in secular art and literature, subtly evoking themes of sacrifice and redemption. The chalice on the right panel is often associated with Saint John the Evangelist, but the snake emerging from it is an ancient symbol of renewal and healing. Such symbols are not static; they evolve, mirroring the human psyche's eternal quest for meaning, reflecting our hopes, fears, and collective memory.