De apostel Philippus 1508 - 1512

Lucas van Leyden created this engraving of the apostle Phillip, sometime between 1510 and 1530. During the early 16th century, religious imagery was shaped by the rise of the Reformation and debates about the role of religious figures. Here, Phillip's identity as a religious leader is clearly expressed through his halo and the large cross he carries. Yet, his bare feet and tattered clothes also signal humility and a closeness to the common person. Van Leyden lived in a society undergoing significant religious and social change; his choice to represent Phillip in this way perhaps reflects a desire to make religious figures more relatable and human. Notice the fine lines and details achieved through engraving, a technique that allowed for the mass production of images. What does it mean to see a religious figure reproduced and disseminated widely? Does it amplify or dilute the power of its image?