St. Dominic 1632 - 1685

Conrad Lauwers' "St. Dominic," a delicate engraving, presents us with the founder of the Dominican Order, adorned in the simple habit that speaks of humility and devotion. In his hand, he holds a lily, a symbol of purity and his unwavering commitment to the Church. But look closer at the base of the statue, where a cherubic figure holds a flaming torch. This is no mere decorative element. The torch, often associated with St. Dominic, represents his burning zeal for truth and his relentless pursuit of heresy. The torch as a symbol of enlightenment goes back to ancient times. We can recall Prometheus bringing fire to mankind, or its use in Mithraic mysteries. It carries connotations of illumination and knowledge. Here, the symbol takes on a more complex, even aggressive stance as a symbol of the Holy Inquisition. Thus, the symbols of purity and fiery zeal intertwine. This creates an intense emotional engagement, and a profound meditation on the complexities inherent in faith, power, and the human condition. The image reminds us of the ever-evolving nature of symbols. The passage of time and the weight of history forever shape their meanings.