Heilige Justina 1833 - 1909

Albrecht Schultheiss rendered this image of Saint Justina using engraving, capturing her contemplative essence. The halo above her head—a universal symbol of sanctity—gained prominence in early Christian art, evolved from pagan sun discs and Roman imperial portraiture, and was used to denote status and divinity. Justina’s downcast eyes invite introspection, a recurring motif found across religious art, symbolizing humility and devotion. This gesture transcends time, echoing in countless depictions of saints and martyrs, each bearing the weight of faith and sacrifice. Think of this pose, and how, though centuries pass, the underlying message—an emotional depth—remains potent. Such symbols, laden with historical and psychological depth, reveal how images function as vessels of memory. This visual language, passed down through generations, resurfaces and adapts, constantly renewing its emotional resonance.