Different Scenes from the Gospels and from Acta Aposotolorum 1525 - 1535

This 16th-century etching by Daniel Hopfer depicts different scenes from the Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles. The image is abundant in Christian symbols, such as halos, and gestures, such as the laying on of hands, representing divine grace and authority. Consider the act of laying on hands, a motif prevalent throughout Christian art and rituals. Its origins can be traced back to ancient practices of imparting blessings or spiritual power. We find similar gestures in depictions of royal investitures and even in scenes of healing in pagan art. This continuity highlights how cultural memory operates, subconsciously shaping artistic expression across epochs. The gestures carry deep psychological weight, offering reassurance and spiritual connection. This non-linear, cyclical progression sees the symbols resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings in different historical contexts.