De heilige familie met Johannes de Doper 1633 - 1672

Willem Basse created this image of the Holy Family with John the Baptist using engraving techniques. The scene is rich with symbols. The cross held by the infant John immediately captures our attention. It is a clear foreshadowing of Christ's crucifixion, a symbol laden with centuries of religious significance. Interestingly, the depiction of infants in such settings echoes the putti of classical antiquity, figures of innocence and love, yet here, infused with Christian meaning. Consider how the innocent play between the infants Jesus and John mirrors similar scenes in ancient Roman art, where cherubic figures frolic, symbolizing prosperity and divine favor. The maternal gaze of Mary connects across time, evoking the emotional power seen in images of mother goddesses from various cultures. This cyclical progression of symbols reveals the complex interplay between classical heritage and Christian belief, constantly resurfacing and evolving through the ages.