Heilige Helena met kruis 1500 - 1575

This small unidentified print portrays Saint Helena with the cross. The unknown artist created this piece sometime in the past, using engraving. As the mother of Emperor Constantine, Helena holds a significant place in Christian history, particularly in relation to power, gender, and religious conversion. The cross she carries symbolizes not only her devotion but also the complex intertwining of religious belief and imperial authority. Helena's story, deeply embedded in patriarchal structures, has resonated differently across time. Her representation in art often reflects societal views on female piety, power, and the role of women in shaping religious narratives. What does it mean for a woman to be celebrated for finding a religious relic? How did class affect her reputation? This image invites you to consider the multifaceted dimensions of a historical figure whose identity and actions have been shaped by both religious devotion and imperial politics.