School van Athene 1629 - 1740

This engraving, made by Christoffel van Sichem II, depicts a biblical scene with the King of Assyria ordering a priest to be brought to Samaria. At its core is the motif of the priest, an archetype deeply embedded in human culture, acting as an intermediary between the divine and the earthly. The figure of the priest, dressed in robes and standing at the center, echoes through time. We see reflections of this figure in ancient Egyptian priests, in classical oracles, and even in modern-day spiritual leaders. This motif carries with it a powerful sense of authority and spiritual guidance. The priest’s gesture, possibly of blessing or instruction, is reminiscent of countless depictions of authoritative figures imparting wisdom. Over time, the priest has come to represent not just religious authority but also the keepers of knowledge. This image resonates with our collective memory, tapping into primal needs for guidance and order in the face of the unknown. It's a symbol that has resurfaced and evolved, reflecting our enduring quest for meaning.