Dish (coppa): Saint Margaret 1527

This is an earthenware dish depicting Saint Margaret, made by Maestro Giorgio Andreoli in the early 16th century. Here, Saint Margaret emerges triumphant, having conquered the dragon—a symbol of overcoming evil and temptation. Note the spear she wields, a common attribute signifying her victory, and the dragon itself, subdued at her feet, its form a twisted echo of ancient serpentine deities. This motif of a saint overcoming a monstrous beast can be traced back to early Christian art, echoing tales of heroes battling chaos. Consider how this imagery taps into our collective memory, stirring deep-seated fears and aspirations. The dragon, a primal symbol of the subconscious, becomes a vessel for societal anxieties, while Saint Margaret embodies the hope for redemption. This symbolic drama, repeatedly staged throughout art history, reveals a powerful emotional undercurrent, engaging viewers on a visceral level. The cyclical nature of this imagery, constantly re-emerging and adapting, underscores how symbols evolve, carrying echoes of past meanings while resonating with contemporary concerns.