Samson and the Lion (recto); Virgin Mary with Right Arm Extended (verso) n.d.

Domenico Fiasella rendered "Samson and the Lion" in a drawing, capturing the biblical hero's raw strength. Here, we see Samson in conflict with the lion; a symbol of power and aggression, subdued by human courage. The motif of man wrestling a lion echoes through time, from the ancient Near East to classical antiquity, embodying themes of heroism. Consider Gilgamesh, whose strength was similarly displayed through depictions of animal combat. These images tap into a collective memory, reflecting humanity's enduring fascination with the triumph over primal forces. The dynamic tension captures a pivotal moment, engaging viewers on a subconscious level. This echoes the cyclical nature of symbols and how they are constantly resurfacing and evolving across cultures.