Drei Entwürfe zu einem stehenden Johannes dem Evangelisten c. 1460

These three studies of John the Evangelist, made by an anonymous hand, present him with symbolic objects: a chalice, a book, and a pen. The chalice, often included in depictions of John, refers to the legend that he was once given a poisoned cup, from which he miraculously survived. This symbol evokes themes of faith, divine protection, and the triumph over adversity. You see this motif echoing through centuries, like the poisoned apple in the story of Snow White, symbolizing danger and redemption. Consider the book, a direct reference to John's role as the author of the Gospel. Throughout history, the book has served as a symbol of knowledge, wisdom, and revelation. From ancient Egyptian scrolls to contemporary digital texts, its form has changed, but its essence remains constant. These symbols, deeply embedded in the collective consciousness, engage viewers on a profound, subconscious level. They serve as a potent reminder of the enduring power of images to transmit cultural memory across generations.