Saint Bernardine of Siena 1450

Andrea Mantegna painted this depiction of Saint Bernardine of Siena during the Early Renaissance. Note the golden halo encircling his head, a common symbol in religious art denoting sanctity and spiritual illumination. Yet, the halo's presence also harkens back to ancient Roman art, where it symbolized power and divinity, often seen adorning emperors. This visual echo shows us how symbols migrate through time, shedding old meanings and acquiring new ones. The book in Bernardine’s hands, another key motif, signifies knowledge, wisdom, and the written word—attributes associated with saints and scholars. The act of holding a book appears across cultures, from ancient Egyptian scribes to Renaissance philosophers. Each instance carries a reverence for learning and the power of intellect. Here, the image engages viewers on a subconscious level, reminding us of our collective pursuit of knowledge and spiritual enlightenment. This reflects a cyclical progression where symbols resurface, evolving and taking on new meanings.