Kerkinterieur met nonnetje 1827 - 1891

Cornelis Springer created this pencil drawing of a church interior with a nun in the Netherlands sometime in the 19th century. Springer was known for his detailed architectural drawings, and here he presents us with the Gothic arches, columns, and ornate details typical of Dutch churches. But what might a drawing like this tell us about the cultural values of the time? The 19th century was a period of great social and political change in the Netherlands. It was also a time of religious revival. The figure of the nun, almost hidden in the drawing, represents a renewed interest in traditional religious values, but, positioned as she is in a grand architectural setting, the drawing also underlines the institutional status of the church itself. To understand such a drawing, we can turn to documents from the period, such as church records, architectural plans, and personal letters. These resources help us understand the social and institutional context in which art is made, allowing us to appreciate how art both reflects and shapes the values of its time.