Boom met Thomas van Aquino (deel linksonder) 1590

This engraving, "Tree with Thomas Aquinas" was made by an anonymous artist, and its date of origin is unknown. It presents a complex visual metaphor for the dissemination of religious and philosophical knowledge. The tree, a common symbol in the medieval period, represents the interconnectedness of ideas, with the roots symbolizing the foundations of knowledge and the branches representing its various manifestations. The figure of Thomas Aquinas at the base suggests his pivotal role in shaping Christian doctrine. Created in Europe, this image reflects the scholastic tradition of organizing knowledge into hierarchical systems. The inclusion of the crucifixion is a reminder of religion’s centrality to the intellectual and institutional life of the time. The "Tree of Knowledge" speaks to the power of institutions like the church and the university to shape intellectual life. Understanding this image requires a deep dive into theology, philosophy, and art history. It's a reminder that art is always embedded in a specific time, place, and set of power relations.