De oprichting van de koperen slang (rechter helft) 1646 - 1700

This is Antoine Masson’s engraving depicting the biblical story of the brazen serpent. Here, the serpent on the pole is a powerful symbol that speaks to something much deeper within the human psyche. The serpent, often seen as a symbol of chaos, temptation, and primordial instinct, appears here not as a bringer of death, but as a means of salvation. The image reflects a recurring theme in human history, where symbols are inverted, and what was once feared is revered. This motif echoes across cultures, from the caduceus of Hermes, to the serpent in alchemical traditions representing transformation. The emotional and psychological impact of this scene lies in its appeal to our collective memory. Masson evokes a sense of awe, hope, and despair through the gestures and expressions of the figures. The serpent on the pole, as a symbol of healing and redemption, suggests a non-linear, cyclical progression of symbols, constantly resurfacing and evolving through time.