Portrait of Jean Calvin 1772

Pierre Jean Paul de Berny created this portrait of Jean Calvin, capturing the theologian in profile, encircled by text and ornamental flourishes. Above Calvin, a radiant symbol appears, evocative of divine light. The motif of the halo or radiant light has a rich history, appearing across cultures and religions to denote holiness or enlightenment. We see it in depictions of the Buddha, ancient Roman emperors, and, most notably, Christian saints. Over time, its form has shifted, from a simple circle to elaborate bursts of light. The radiance in de Berny's portrait shares visual similarities with the Holy Spirit or divine presence. Such symbols are not mere aesthetic choices; they tap into a collective memory, resonating with viewers on a subconscious level. They evoke feelings of reverence, awe, and a connection to something beyond the tangible world, demonstrating the cyclical progression of symbols, resurfacing, evolving, and taking on new meanings across historical contexts.