Monk with Crucifix (Recto); Monk with Book (Verso) 1600

This drawing, made around 1600 by an anonymous artist, presents a monk with a crucifix, symbols laden with centuries of meaning. The crucifix, of course, represents Christ's sacrifice and redemption. In the monk's hand, it's not merely an object but an emblem of faith, a lifeline connecting him to the divine. Consider the hand itself – a motif that echoes across cultures. Think of the 'Hand of God' in medieval art, bestowing blessings. Here, the monk's hand, aged 45, holds the crucifix, a gesture of devotion. The hand becomes a vessel of spiritual energy, its lines telling tales of faith and contemplation. The figure fades in parts of the drawing. This recalls the cyclical nature of symbols – how they resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings in different historical contexts. This drawing captures an intense moment of devotion and speaks to the non-linear journey of faith, engaging us on a profound, subconscious level.