Altaar met Christus op wolk before 1643

This altar with Christ on a cloud was etched by Abraham Bosse in the 17th century. Here, Christ resurrected, carrying the cross, surrounded by clouds, evokes the triumph over death, a concept deeply rooted in human desire for immortality. Above, angels frame God watching over his son, under the dove representing the Holy Spirit, all key figures in the Holy Trinity. Now, consider the cross. From ancient sun wheels to instruments of torture, its symbolic journey is a testament to cultural metamorphosis. Its adoption by Christianity reshaped its meaning, transforming it into a beacon of hope, a symbol of sacrifice and redemption. But let us not forget its earlier ties to pagan symbolism, hinting at the subconscious layering of beliefs that permeates our collective memory. The emotional power of the resurrected Christ lies in its ability to tap into our primal longing for transcendence, a theme that echoes through countless cultures. This image is not just a depiction; it is a resurgence of symbols, molded by history, that evoke deeply embedded emotional and psychological responses.