Gezicht op het Norwich Market Cross 1750

This is Simpson’s print of the Norwich Market Cross. The cross rises as the dominant visual symbol of the image. Emerging from the late Roman period, the cross initially was a symbol of death, yet it was then transformed into a symbol of triumph, a symbol that has permeated artistic expression ever since. Like the Greek Doric column—a staple of classical architecture—the cross has been passed down through history. While the column has evolved from temples to decorative motifs, the cross has seen similar symbolic evolutions. It resurfaces in myriad forms, from public monuments to personal adornments, carrying with it a resonance of faith, sacrifice, and redemption. The emotional gravitas of the cross is that of a powerful force, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. Its presence evokes not just religious sentiments but also a deep-seated sense of cultural identity. The image of the cross in this print is another example of its continuous journey through time. It resurfaces, evolves, and takes on new meanings in different historical contexts.