Apostel Jakobus de Meerdere (Jacobus Maior) 1616 - 1636

This engraving of Saint James the Greater was created by Nicolaes Ryckmans, an artist active in the early 17th century. During this time, the Dutch Republic was asserting its independence, leading to new forms of cultural and religious expression. Ryckmans's portrayal of James, distinguished by his pilgrim's staff and halo, reflects the period’s complex relationship with religious identity. James is presented not just as a saint but as a man, his gaze direct and his features detailed. This approach humanizes a religious figure, inviting a more personal connection. Consider the role of such images in a society undergoing profound religious and political change. This piece seems to negotiate the line between traditional religious iconography and a burgeoning sense of individual identity. It invites us to reflect on the ways we visualize faith and the figures who embody it, both then and now.