Christus met zeven sterren en zwaard 1797 - 1836

This print by Philippus Velijn depicts Christ standing on clouds, holding seven stars and a sword. These are potent symbols drawn from the Book of Revelation, where the seven stars represent the seven churches, and the sword symbolizes divine judgment. The symbolism evokes a rich tapestry of imagery across time. We find echoes of this celestial authority in earlier depictions of deities wielding thunderbolts or scepters, emblems of power and dominion. The sword, in particular, reminds us of ancient heroes and gods, from the Roman Mars to the Norse Tyr, each bearing arms that signify their role as arbiters of fate. Over time, the sword has reappeared in depictions of Saint Paul or Saint Michael, emphasizing divine justice, reflecting our collective anxieties about morality, justice, and the consequences of our actions. The image is striking, a powerful engagement on a subconscious level with a symbol of authority. It is a reminder of how deeply ingrained these images are in our collective memory, how they resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings in different historical contexts.