Visitatie c. 1581 - 1645

This engraving, "Visitation" by Karel van Mallery, depicts the meeting of Mary and Elizabeth, both pregnant, and sanctified by their halos. Note the act of greeting, where clasped hands transcend a mere salutation. This gesture, seen across cultures and epochs, carries the weight of agreement and communion. Think back to ancient Roman depictions of concordia, where clasped hands symbolized harmony and shared purpose. Here, that powerful symbolic handshake is imbued with Christian significance. In the embrace, in the very touch of hands, is recognition, blessing, and the unfolding of divine will. Like figures in a dream, these women connect to archetypes, echoing in our collective memory. We are reminded of the subconscious desire for connection, a desire passed down through generations, constantly evolving yet eternally familiar.