Thomas c. 1555 - 1565

This engraving presents Saint Thomas, identified by the halberd he holds, the instrument of his martyrdom. His hand rests on a tree trunk that alludes to both the Tree of Knowledge and the Tree of Life. Halberds, originally weapons, evolved into symbols of authority. We can trace the evolution of such objects through time; think of the scepters of kings or the fasces of Roman magistrates, all denoting power. This transformation reflects a deep-seated human impulse: the projection of inner authority onto external objects. The motif of the tree, too, echoes through history. From ancient fertility cults to medieval allegories, the tree symbolizes life, growth, and spiritual connection. Here, it stands as a silent witness, bridging the earthly and divine realms. The image as a whole engages viewers on a subconscious level by connecting cultural memory and collective subconscious. The figure emanates solemnity and silent suffering. Thus, the halberd and the tree entwine in a dance of meaning, their forms and interpretations shifting and evolving across the ages, leaving traces in our collective psyche.