Duitse krijgsgevangenen tijdens de Eerste Wereldoorlog in Veurne, België 1914 - 1919

This photograph captures German prisoners of war in Veurne, Belgium, during the First World War. The image is dominated by the figures of soldiers, a poignant symbol of the war’s impact on human lives. Here, the cross worn by a member of the medical personnel, typically associated with healing and sanctuary, contrasts sharply with the backdrop of conflict. It echoes the ancient cross symbols, repurposed through centuries in diverse contexts, from religious iconography to secular emblems. Think, for instance, of the red cross and its emergence during the Geneva Convention, as a protective sign in war. But observe how this symbol is not merely a functional identifier; it also operates on a deeper psychological level. Even in the midst of such conflict, we see the human desire for hope and healing manifested through this emblem. The cross’s endurance through history attests to our collective need for symbols that transcend the immediate horrors of our time. It resurfaces, evolves, and takes on new meanings, reflecting our persistent quest for redemption.