Heilige Ammonius de Grote als kluizenaar 1590 - 1619

Boëtius Adamsz. Bolswert created this print of Saint Ammonius the Great as a hermit. During this time in the Netherlands, the Catholic Church was under pressure from the Reformation, and prints like this were used to reinforce Catholic teachings and traditions. The image shows Ammonius in a moment of deep religious contemplation. A halo surrounds his head, symbolizing his holiness, while the rosary and the crucifix in the background highlight his commitment to his faith. Note the contrast between the saint’s serene, illuminated figure and the stark, shadowed background. What does it mean to choose isolation in the pursuit of spiritual purity? What do we make of the ways in which certain bodies and identities are elevated to sainthood, while others are marginalized? Consider how this image, created in a time of religious and political upheaval, invites viewers to reflect on their own beliefs.