Santa Barbara Mission Doorway Design from the portfolio "Decorative Art of Spanish California" 1935 - 1942

This design of a doorway from the Santa Barbara Mission presents a compelling array of symbols, blending Christian and possibly indigenous motifs. At the top, we see a stylized cross, the ultimate symbol of Christian faith, rendered with floral, almost pagan-like details. Beneath, a rosette and circular emblem evoke the sun, a life-giving force revered in many cultures. It is fascinating how these symbols reappear across cultures and eras. The cross, for example, predates Christianity as a symbol of cosmic order. The rosette's radiating patterns can be seen in ancient sun worshiping cultures. Such symbols tap into our collective unconscious, resonating with primal emotions. The radiant symmetry of the rosette can instill a sense of harmony and spiritual unity, reflecting humanity’s timeless search for meaning. This combination suggests a fascinating cultural synthesis, a testament to how symbols migrate, adapt, and persist, carrying layers of meaning as they journey through time.