Christus als leraar van de mensheid 1550

This is Dirck Volckertsz Coornhert's engraving, illustrating Christ as the teacher of mankind. Observe the figure of Christ, nearly nude, emanating divine light. He bears the marks of crucifixion, a compass in one hand, and holds a staff topped with banners in the other. The compass, a tool of measurement, has long been a symbol of divine creation and order. It recalls God as the architect of the universe, setting limits to the cosmos. We see echoes of this in medieval depictions of God using a compass to draw the boundaries of creation. Consider, too, the banners on the staff, symbols of authority and victory. These are not merely emblems of power, but also stand as testaments to Christ's triumph over death. This symbolic language taps into our collective memory, stirring deep-seated emotions related to faith, hope, and the cyclical nature of life and resurrection. It is a potent reminder of humanity's enduring quest for meaning and redemption.