Madonna and child 1490

Here is a drawing of the Madonna and Child by Andrea Mantegna, now held at the British Museum. Notice the halos above Mary and her son, and the angel down below. These recurring symbols from diverse eras reflect a shared human impulse to represent the divine. Consider the gesture of blessing given by Jesus. We see this hand position across time, from ancient Roman orators to early Christian art. The meaning shifts slightly, but the underlying intention—to convey authority, grace, or divine favor—remains. This continuity suggests a deep-seated human need to express and understand power. The Madonna archetype resonates universally. Whether as Isis nursing Horus, or Mary with Jesus, the mother-child image taps into our collective memories. Mantegna masterfully evokes an immediate, visceral connection, reminding us that these archetypes are not static but constantly evolve, reflecting our evolving cultural and psychological landscapes.