Frederik Hendrik verleent barmhartigheid aan de naakte actionisten, 1720 1720

This print, made around 1720 by an anonymous artist, depicts Frederik Hendrik offering mercy to naked actionists. The most striking symbol here is the act of covering the naked, a motif deeply rooted in Christian iconography, representing compassion and forgiveness. We see echoes of this in countless images throughout history—from ancient Roman depictions of Caritas, the embodiment of charity, to medieval paintings of Saint Martin sharing his cloak with a beggar. The gesture transcends mere physical covering; it is a profound act of empathy, absorbing the shame and vulnerability of another. Think, too, of the psychological implications: the subconscious desire to protect, to nurture, to shield from the harsh realities of the world. But consider how this symbol has morphed. In some contexts, it speaks to genuine benevolence. In others, it serves as a mask for self-righteousness or political maneuvering. The actionist's nakedness, a symbol of vulnerability, becomes intertwined with power and manipulation. This print reminds us that symbols are never static. They are fluid, ever-evolving entities, shaped by the currents of history and the depths of the human psyche.