Liefde (Caritas) 1534 - 1606

Paolo Farinati etched "Liefde (Caritas)" portraying maternal love through a classical lens. At its heart, a mother tenderly embraces a child, while others play nearby. This image isn't just a scene; it's a tableau of Caritas, or Charity, one of the three theological virtues. The motif echoes through time. We see its earlier roots in ancient Roman depictions of abundance and fertility. In Farinati's era, these symbols resurface, imbued with Christian morality. But look closer, and you'll find the echo of something deeper - the archetype of the nurturing mother, a primal image stirring deep within our collective psyche. The very act of embracing, of protection, resonates across cultures and eras. The symbolism of mother and child carries emotional weight, tapping into our deepest needs for security and affection, a powerful force engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. It’s a testament to how these primal images persist and evolve, reflecting humanity's unchanging needs and evolving understanding.