The Departure 

Gustave Doré created this engraving, "The Departure," showing the poignant moments before the crusaders leave. Central is the powerful image of Christ on the cross, a potent symbol of sacrifice and redemption in Western culture. The motif of the cross, with its roots in ancient execution methods, was transformed by Christianity into an emblem of hope. Its image carries echoes of suffering and salvation, recurring through centuries of art, from early Roman catacombs to Renaissance masterpieces. Consider the "Isenheim Altarpiece," where the cross becomes an intense exploration of pain and deliverance. The emotional power of the crucified Christ is undeniable, engaging viewers on a subconscious level and tapping into deeply ingrained cultural memories. This symbol does not exist in a linear, progressive fashion but rather resurfaces and evolves, taking on new meanings in different historical contexts.