Apocalypse of John, Leaf 42 c. 1465

This woodcut leaf from the Apocalypse of John presents a vivid array of symbols, reflecting the anxieties and hopes of its time. At the top, a figure, possibly John, is dictating his visions. Below, a man sleeps, guarded by angels. The sleeping figure is a motif echoing the ancient Greek god Hypnos, the personification of sleep, often depicted in a similar repose. But here, sleep is not merely rest; it is a state of vulnerability, a moment when the soul is open to divine intervention or demonic influence. This duality is further emphasized by the imagery of war and conflict at the bottom, symbolizing the eternal struggle between good and evil. The warriors, clad in armor, evoke the Roman legionaries, symbols of both power and oppression. These symbols create a powerful emotional tension, engaging viewers on a subconscious level, reminding us of the cyclical nature of history and the enduring power of human fears and aspirations.