Opstanding 1626

This is Francesco Villamena’s etching of the Resurrection. Dominating the center is the figure of Christ, emerging triumphantly from the tomb, holding a cross, the symbol of his victory over death. Note how the motif of the 'sleeping soldier' appears—unaware of the divine event unfolding. This links back to ancient Roman depictions of guards at the emperor’s tomb, a symbol of earthly power rendered helpless before the eternal. Consider also the grieving women, their sorrow a poignant contrast to Christ’s rising, a sorrow that echoes in countless depictions of mourning across cultures. The cross itself has undergone a fascinating transformation over time. From its initial brutal representation of execution, it evolves into a symbol of hope and salvation, deeply embedded in the collective psyche. These symbols are more than mere representations; they are conduits of cultural memory. Villamena masterfully taps into this potent force, engaging us on a profound, subconscious level.