Heilige Rufinus van Aquileia after 1636

This engraving, made by Frederick Bloemaert, depicts Saint Rufinus of Aquileia. Rufinus, draped in a simple cloak, embodies a life of scholarship. Notice the book at his feet, a potent symbol of knowledge and the written word, reflecting his dedication to translating theological texts. The gesture of his open hand, almost an invitation, echoes through time. We see similar gestures in classical oratory, where the open hand signified truth and persuasion. Consider how this motif reappears in Renaissance art, revitalized with humanist values, in paintings where figures extend their hands in discourse. This gesture taps into our collective memory, subconsciously triggering associations with communication and understanding. The symbol of the book and open hand are not static. They evolve, carrying traces of the past while adapting to new cultural contexts. Each repetition adds layers of meaning, a testament to the enduring power of images and the human desire for connection across time.