Wonderbaarlijke genezing 1723 - 1783

This print, made by Lodewijk Joseph Fruytiers, captures a moment of miraculous healing. Note the prominent image of Christ on the cross, a symbol laden with centuries of meaning: suffering, sacrifice, and ultimately, redemption. This symbol reverberates through history, appearing in various forms across cultures, like the "crux immissa quadrata," adopted by early Christians. The gesture of raising a hand, often seen here, is also ancient. Think of Roman orators, their hands held high to command attention and respect. The cross and the raised hand resonate with deep-seated emotions. They tap into our collective memory and subconscious understanding of pain, hope, and authority. These symbols recur, evolve, and take on new meanings across eras, demonstrating the cyclical nature of cultural symbols.