Twee scènes uit de eerste kruistocht 1729 - 1733

Dominique Sornique's print, made around 1700, depicts scenes from the First Crusade. The most striking motif here is the cross, emblazoned on flags and shields, a potent symbol of faith and authority. Consider how this symbol has been adopted and adapted throughout history. From the simple wooden cross of Christ’s crucifixion to the elaborate, ornamented crosses adorning cathedrals and royal regalia, the cross has served as a signifier of power and allegiance. Even today, one may witness the cross during political rallies or demonstrations, repurposed to symbolize cultural identity, revealing the adaptability of symbols to different historical contexts. The crusaders wielding the cross, then, become more than just warriors; they are embodiments of a collective will. This image taps into the deep well of human emotions and universal experiences, a powerful force engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. The symbols recur, evolve, and resurface, carrying echoes of past struggles and aspirations.