Triomf van Christus after 1513

This engraving, "Triumph of Christ," presents us with a symbolic procession, dominated by Christ, enthroned and triumphant. Here, the ox symbolizes sacrifice, and the Gospels serve as his chariot, drawn through realms of the blessed and the damned. This motif of triumph echoes classical antiquity, recalling Roman emperors carried aloft in victory. But here, instead of earthly conquest, we witness spiritual sovereignty. The triumph resonates with the powerful emotions evoked by the Christian narrative, engaging us on a profound, subconscious level, stirring deeply ingrained feelings of hope and redemption. This image carries forward the ancient theme of apotheosis, the elevation of a mortal to divine status. Yet, it also reflects the cyclical nature of such motifs, as the victory parade evolves from earthly rulers to spiritual saviors. This transformation demonstrates how symbols are continually reborn, carrying echoes of the past into new cultural landscapes.