Maria met Kind 17th century

This anonymous engraving presents us with the archetypal image of Maria met Kind, or Mary and Child. Notice how the tender gesture of Mary nursing Jesus has echoed through art history. We find it not only in Christian art but also in ancient depictions of goddesses like Isis nursing Horus. The act of breastfeeding symbolizes nourishment, protection, and the profound connection between mother and child. The Madonna's serene gaze and the soft, flowing drapery evoke a sense of calm and purity. Yet, beneath the surface lies a deeper emotional current. This image resonates with our collective memory, tapping into the primal bond between mother and child, stirring feelings of comfort, security, and unconditional love. The cyclical nature of these symbols reminds us that despite the shifting sands of time, fundamental human experiences endure, resurfacing in art across cultures and epochs, forever etched in our collective consciousness.