St. John of Patmos 

This stained glass, depicting St. John of Patmos, was made by Francesco del Cossa. John sits on the Isle of Patmos, where he wrote the Book of Revelation. Note the chalice beside him. This symbol links John to the Last Supper and symbolizes the Eucharist, reflecting themes of sacrifice and redemption. It is also a symbol of purification, echoing ancient rituals of cleansing and renewal, found across cultures from the classical libations to the holy grail. Above, the angel and the seven candlesticks represent the seven churches of Asia. The seven-branched candelabra finds its roots in the menorah of the Temple in Jerusalem. The appearance of these motifs across different epochs and cultures suggests a deep-seated human fascination with symbols of spiritual enlightenment. These archetypes resonate within our collective consciousness. They reflect our primal aspirations and fears. The cyclical return and reinterpretation of these symbols speak to the enduring power of human imagination.