Grafmonumenten en een sculptuur van Johannes de Evangelist c. 1850

This pencil drawing presents sketches of grave monuments and a sculpture of John the Evangelist by Pierre Joseph Hubert Cuypers. Dominating the composition are the crosses atop the tombstones, ancient symbols predating Christianity, representing the intersection of the divine and earthly realms. The cross, initially a pagan symbol, was adopted by Christians to signify Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection. Yet, its emotive power extends beyond religious doctrine. Observe how its form echoes the ancient sun wheel, symbolizing cyclical renewal, a concept that persists in various cultural expressions of life, death, and rebirth. Consider too the image of John the Evangelist: the supine figure connects with ancient effigies of kings and holy figures. These symbols, these potent forms, serve as vessels carrying collective memories and subconscious associations. They link us to generations past, echoing through time, reminding us that symbols never truly die; they only transform.