Evangelist Lucas c. 1590 - 1637

This engraving by Egbert Van Panderen depicts the Evangelist Luke, identifiable by the halo above his head and the ox beside him. The winged ox symbolizes sacrifice, service, and strength. Observe how Luke is portrayed in the act of painting, suggesting his role as the author of the Gospel and Acts. However, this is a recurring motif. From ancient Greece to the Renaissance, artists were often depicted alongside objects or symbols representing their craft. Yet, the symbolic link to the animal spirit is strong. The ox appears in ancient Minoan culture as a symbol of power, embodying the animalistic urges that humanity tames. The ox resurfaces through various epochs, its core association with sacrifice. Ultimately, its presence speaks to our collective psyche, symbolizing the power of spiritual enlightenment that transcends time.