Johannes de Evangelist 16th century

Hans Baldung's "Johannes de Evangelist," is a drawing portraying the biblical figure holding a chalice with a serpent emerging from it. This symbol of Saint John is rooted in a legend where he drank from a poisoned cup, yet remained unharmed, thus the chalice is the symbol of triumph over evil. But let us consider, the symbol of the snake, shedding its skin, has appeared throughout history as a metaphor for renewal and transformation. In ancient Greece, the serpent was an emblem of Asclepius, the god of medicine, embodying healing and regeneration. But here, the snake emerging from the chalice, transforms this symbol of healing and rebirth into a sign of overcoming temptation. Consider the gesture, the tilt of the head, the calm and knowing expression: Baldung captures a profound psychological moment—a quiet fortitude in the face of adversity. It resonates with the complex interplay between fear and faith, reflecting the collective psyche's grappling with mortality and redemption, and echoing through centuries. It is a testament to the enduring power of symbols, which shape our understanding of the world.