Samuel 1613

This engraving of Samuel was created by Cornelis Galle I in the 17th century. Here, Samuel is holding a book, a symbol of wisdom, knowledge, and divine inspiration. The book signifies Samuel’s role as a prophet and judge in ancient Israel. The act of holding a book can be traced back through centuries of art, seen in depictions of evangelists. This motif highlights the importance of sacred texts, evolving from simple scrolls to elaborately bound volumes, each iteration reinforcing the power of the written word. The book as an object suggests access to hidden knowledge, appealing to the viewer's subconscious desire for understanding and enlightenment. The image stirs our collective memory, reminding us that while the forms may change, the underlying quest for meaning and truth remains constant.