Zuster aan het bed van een jongen 1917 - 1970

Adrie Vürtheim created this drawing of a sister at the bedside of a boy using pen and ink. The prominent red cross, adorning the sister's headdress, is a powerful emblem, resonating far beyond its immediate context. Originally derived from the Swiss flag, it became an internationally recognized symbol of aid and protection, particularly during times of conflict and crisis. Interestingly, the cross's significance has undergone transformations throughout history. It evokes the medieval Crusades, where it signified religious fervor and military campaigns. Yet, in this artwork, the red cross speaks to a more compassionate narrative: a testament to humanity's enduring impulse to care for the sick and wounded. The sister's presence embodies a nurturing spirit, a collective memory of those who provide comfort in times of need. This emblem’s journey is non-linear, its meanings cyclical, continually evolving. It resurfaces, adapting to new contexts, reminding us of the intricate interplay between historical memory and cultural representation.