Laatste Oordeel en symbolen voor de zeven werken van barmhartigheid 1577

This engraving, made by Philips Galle, presents the Last Judgement alongside symbols of the seven acts of mercy. Dominating the composition is the figure of Christ in judgement. This figure, drawn from ancient Roman depictions of emperors, evokes power and authority. Around him, scenes of salvation and damnation play out. Note the figures rising to the heavens, contrasted with those cast into the fiery depths of hell. The emotional impact is palpable – a stark vision of hope and despair. This motif echoes through art history, from Michelangelo's imposing depiction in the Sistine Chapel to earlier Byzantine mosaics. The scales of justice, swords, and skulls, all reappear in diverse cultural contexts. The skull, a memento mori, is a potent symbol of mortality, reminding us of our inevitable end. Its presence here connects with similar symbols found in ancient Egyptian tombs and Renaissance vanitas paintings. These images tap into our collective memory, evoking primal fears and hopes. The engraving serves not only as a religious lesson but as a powerful reminder of our shared humanity, and our eternal destiny.