Portret van Michael Franck after 1640

This engraving by Peter Troschel immortalizes Michael Franck, born in 1609, within a frame teeming with symbolic intent. Above Franck’s head, the inscription “Deus meus in te confido, non erubescam” – “My God, in you I trust, I shall not be ashamed” – speaks to the religious fervor of the era. The cherubic head with wings at the base echoes motifs found in classical art, symbolizing divine inspiration. This imagery is reminiscent of ancient portrayals of Cupid, subtly blending sacred and profane love. Consider how the cherub, a symbol of innocence and divine love, transforms through history. Initially a pagan symbol, it was adapted into Christian iconography, its image continuously resurfacing, charged with new meanings and emotional undertones. These symbols tap into our collective memory. The blend of religious and classical motifs triggers a subconscious recognition of the cyclical nature of symbols, revealing how images persist and transform, reflecting humanity’s enduring quest for meaning and connection.