Bekering van de Heilige Bavo van Gent 1710 - 1784

Frans Pilsen created this print, "Conversion of Saint Bavo of Ghent", sometime in the 1700s. Look closely at the scales held by Bavo. These are not merely an attribute; they are a powerful symbol of justice and divine judgment. Consider how scales have appeared throughout history, from ancient Egyptian depictions of the weighing of the heart to their presence in classical allegories of Justice. The gesture of offering alms to the poor also carries profound weight. In antiquity, it was common for victorious emperors to dispense bread to the masses as a sign of benevolence and control. Here, this act is transformed. The composition creates a sense of immediacy, engaging viewers on a visceral level. This isn't just a scene of charity; it's a potent expression of remorse, redemption, and the transformative power of faith. This image speaks to the enduring human desire for atonement. The act of giving transcends its immediate context, resurfacing throughout history with new layers of meaning, reflecting our collective yearning for balance and spiritual fulfillment.