Twee afbeeldingen van kapitelen van de San Marco in Venetië before 1885

Here are two images of capitals from San Marco in Venice, captured by Carl Heinrich Jacobi. These capitals are adorned with images of hybrid creatures—winged lions—symbols loaded with meaning. The lion, traditionally associated with strength and royalty, takes on a new dimension with the addition of wings, evoking the evangelist Mark, thus linking earthly power with divine authority. Consider the image of the lion. It appears in diverse cultures, from ancient Egypt to the Far East, always carrying connotations of power and dominance. Yet, in Venice, it morphs, acquiring wings, becoming tethered to the sacred. The winged lion is not merely a symbol; it is a 'Pathosformel,' an expression laden with cultural and emotional energy that transcends time. It speaks of Venice's aspiration to marry earthly grandeur with celestial blessing, a potent mix that engages the viewer on a profound, subconscious level. This Venetian symbol represents the city's unique identity.