The Virgin Immaculate in Glory (recto); Sketch of a Part of a Leg and a Hand (verso)

This is Domenico Mondo’s pen and brown wash drawing, depicting The Virgin Immaculate in Glory. She stands atop a globe, surrounded by angels, ascending towards the heavens. The globe beneath her feet is a potent symbol, representing dominion over the earthly realm. This motif echoes the classical figure of Fortuna standing on a sphere, a symbol of the capricious nature of fate, but here the Virgin transforms it into a symbol of divine sovereignty. We find a similar motif in depictions of Roman emperors standing on orbs, signifying their rule over the world. The upward-reaching gesture, seen here, is reminiscent of the "Adlocutio" pose found in Roman imperial imagery, where emperors address their troops. Yet, the Virgin's gesture transcends mere authority; it embodies a plea for grace. Such appropriation and transformation of gestures is a powerful force, engaging us on a deep, subconscious level. This intermingling of sacred and secular gestures reflects a continuous, cyclical progression, evolving and resurfacing across different eras.