Create. Destroy. Repeat.

Satan Selling Indulgences

Jena Codex (f. 56r), c. 1490–1510

Illumination on parchment

This striking detail depicts the Devil in papal attire, with horns, webbed wings, and talons, distributing papal bulls of indulgence. Created in Bohemia during the Hussite movement, this sharp anti-clerical satire critiques the corrupt Catholic practice of selling the forgiveness of sins.

Saint Margaret and the Devil

Detail from "The Mystic Marriage of Saint Catherine",

c. 1340

This detail by Sienese master Barna da Siena depicts Saint Margaret of Antioch (Marina) physically overpowering a demon. Imprisoned for her faith, she uses a hammer to beat the devil, symbolizing the triumph of virtue over temptation.

Tempera and gold leaf on panel.

Head of Anubis                          

Egypt. New Kingdom 1550 – 1077 B.C.

Race classification of Europeans according to Benjamin Franklin

(by u/Iptamorfo)