Mariabeeld 1860 - 1900

This photograph by Émile Fürst captures a statue of the Virgin Mary, adorned with symbols rich in history. The lily she holds signifies purity, a motif stretching back to ancient depictions of innocence and divine favor. Observe the crown at her side, a symbol of royalty and sovereignty, echoing the crowns of ancient goddesses and queens, yet here, it signifies Mary's role as Queen of Heaven. This image resonates with countless artistic interpretations of female divinity across cultures, from Isis to Demeter. The crown and mantle reflect a collective yearning for a maternal figure of authority and solace. The echo of past beliefs and cultural memories converge, reminding us that symbols possess a life of their own, continually resurfacing, evolving, and being reinterpreted across time.