Christ on the cross 1772

Pierre Jean Paul de Berny rendered this drawing, ‘Christ on the Cross’, with pen and black ink. The most dominant symbol is, of course, the cross itself, an instrument of torture turned into a sign of salvation. Note how the serpent at the base of the cross writhes beneath Christ. Here, we see the echo of the Garden of Eden. This symbol of temptation and sin is now vanquished by Christ's sacrifice. Serpents have been depicted throughout art history, from ancient Mesopotamian iconography to classical Greek depictions of Asclepius, always carrying connotations of healing, rebirth, and hidden knowledge. Over time, the serpent's image has shifted, often becoming a symbol of chaos, deceit, and primal energy, a powerful force engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. Consider the cyclical nature of these symbols, constantly resurfacing and evolving. They become charged with new meanings across epochs, reflecting our ever-changing cultural and psychological landscapes.