Marcus schrijft zijn evangelie 1683 - 1733

Bernard Picart’s engraving depicts Saint Mark composing his Gospel, surrounded by symbols ripe with historical and cultural resonance. Note the prominent scrolls. These are not merely writing materials, but emblems of knowledge and divine inspiration. Consider how these scrolls link to images of classical muses or ancient philosophers, often depicted holding similar documents, suggesting a lineage of wisdom passed down through the ages. This motif finds echoes across diverse cultures—from the Torah scrolls in Jewish tradition, symbolizing law and covenant, to the carefully preserved texts of Buddhist sutras. Observe, too, how the act of writing itself transforms into a sacred gesture. This connects to the Egyptian god Thoth, scribe of the gods, or the Mesopotamian Nabu, patron of writing. The emotional and psychological weight of these symbols cannot be overstated. They evoke a sense of awe and reverence, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. This non-linear progression shows us how symbols resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings in different historical contexts.