Saint Helen 

Adam Elsheimer's sketch of Saint Helen depicts her holding the True Cross, a symbol of salvation and faith. This object links the artwork to the broader narrative of Christianity. Consider the evolution of the cross itself: from a simple instrument of execution, to a powerful emblem of redemption, its image has been charged with emotional weight. The cross has the power to trigger profound emotional and spiritual responses, as it represents both suffering and triumph over death. Think of the countless artists throughout history who have depicted the deposition or crucifixion of Christ. The gesture of holding or presenting an object becomes, in a way, the re-emergence of this symbol, now linked to Saint Helen. The collective memory and subconscious play a vital role in understanding how we interpret symbols and imbue objects with meaning. These non-linear connections are how symbols re-surface, evolve, and take on new meanings in different historical contexts.