Heilige Marina van Alexandrië als kluizenares 1590 - 1662

This engraving depicts Saint Marina of Alexandria as a hermit, its maker is unfortunately unknown to us. Marina’s halo, like a sun, immediately identifies her sacred status. Note the skull and crucifix, emblems of mortality and salvation, recurring symbols in the memento mori tradition. Marina’s gesture of placing her hand to her chest, her gaze turned upwards, is particularly striking. This gesture speaks to a deep introspection and piety, echoing across centuries in images of penitent saints. Think of Mary Magdalene, often depicted with a similar emotive pose, connecting intense emotion to a divine encounter. Such emotional displays engage us on a visceral level, reminding us of our shared humanity and spiritual yearning. The skull, juxtaposed with the saint’s radiant halo, presents a potent visual paradox. This tension between life and death, earthly and divine, highlights the psychological drama inherent in religious devotion. It is a dialogue that continues to resonate, proving the cyclical nature of symbols.