Elisabet toont de jonge Johannes de Doper aan de Heilige Familie 1655 - 1660

Francois de Poilly created this engraving, "Elisabeth presents the young John the Baptist to the Holy Family," sometime in the 17th century. The figures are posed in a pyramidal configuration, Mary holding Jesus while Elizabeth presents John. Here, the motif of presentation is central. Elizabeth's gesture of placing her hand on John's head is reminiscent of ancient anointing rituals, signifying his destiny. This gesture echoes across centuries; think of similar presentations in ancient Roman imperial imagery. The bare feet are a symbol of humility and holiness, seen across various religious traditions, from ancient Egypt to medieval Christianity. This motif resurfaces, evolved, and is laden with new meanings, reflecting our collective memory. The act of unveiling—a symbolic representation of revealing hidden truths—engages us on a subconscious level. It's a powerful force. The past isn't linear; it cycles, and symbols resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings.