Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore 1499

Hans Holbein the Elder crafted this altarpiece, Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore, rich with religious symbolism, steeped in the tradition of his time. The coronation of the Virgin Mary is central, flanked by saints, angels, and scenes from the life of Christ, all set against a cosmic background. Consider Mary’s coronation, a powerful motif echoing imperial Roman iconography. Here, however, it’s transformed: instead of earthly power, Mary receives divine authority, connecting to the age-old human desire for celestial endorsement. This gesture, of placing a crown, recalls images of emperors, gods, and mythical heroes being crowned to legitimize their rule, reminding us that even the most sacred symbols are rooted in human expressions of power. These images tap into what we might call our collective memory, a psychoanalytic space where symbols resonate deeply, engaging viewers on a subconscious level. Like the cyclical nature of history, the coronation motif reappears, transformed yet familiar, in art across cultures and eras. It is a powerful and complex force, carrying a sense of awe and reverence that engages viewers on a deep, subconscious level.