Saint Anne, The Madonna and Child, and a Franciscan Monk c. 1500

This is a woodcut depicting Saint Anne with the Madonna and Child, accompanied by a Franciscan monk. The figures are haloed, signaling their divine status, and are framed by an ornate arch. Consider the recurring motif of the Madonna and Child throughout art history, echoing ancient images of mother goddesses. Here, the figures embody maternal love, protection, and the promise of salvation, resonating with deep-seated psychological needs for security. Look at the gesture of prayer adopted by the monk. A similar posture can be traced to antiquity, where supplicants offered gestures of submission. This simple act reflects a profound yearning for connection to the divine. The monk's humility encourages viewers to reflect on their own mortality and their search for meaning. The reappearance of this symbol in varying contexts suggests a timeless search for solace.