Madonna en kind aanbeden door Alanus de Rupe 1635 - 1644

Hendrik Snyers created this artwork titled *Madonna and Child Adored by Alanus de Rupe*. Dominating the scene, the Madonna, crowned and radiant, presents the Christ Child, holding an orb symbolizing dominion. This echoes earlier depictions of imperial power, where orbs and crowns signified earthly rule, motifs adapted into Christian iconography to denote divine sovereignty. Alanus de Rupe kneels, receiving a rosary—a symbol of prayer— from the Madonna. The rosary itself links to ancient prayer beads, found across cultures, serving as tools for meditation and spiritual focus. Note the banner behind Alanus, displaying the Madonna, encircled by a rosary. These symbols are not static; they evolve, accumulating layers of meaning through centuries. The Madonna's tender gaze and Alanus's reverent posture elicit a powerful emotional response, tapping into our collective memory of faith and devotion. The image evokes a deep-seated sense of reverence, engaging viewers on a subconscious level. Thus, the visual narrative progresses in cycles, each symbol resurfacing, evolving, and taking on new meanings in response to shifting cultural and historical currents.