Cornelius knielt voor Petrus 1643 - 1646

This engraving shows Cornelius kneeling before Saint Peter, a pivotal moment of conversion, rendered by an anonymous hand. The act of kneeling, laden with meaning, signifies submission and reverence. Yet, observe how Peter gently raises Cornelius, a gesture echoing across centuries. This motif reappears in various guises – from the feudal lord receiving fealty to the supplicant before a deity. Kneeling embodies humanity’s yearning for grace and connection with the divine. The dove above, representing the Holy Spirit, reinforces the significance of this encounter. Such symbols are not static; they evolve, accumulating layers of meaning. The psychological power of these images lies in their ability to tap into our collective memory, resonating with deep-seated emotions. Symbols are passed down, transcending time, resurfacing, and evolving within new contexts. The cyclical progression of such iconography highlights how the past continually shapes our present understanding.