Monnik van de Nollertbroederschap after 1526

This is an etching of a monk of the Nollert Brotherhood made by an anonymous artist. In the visual culture of the 15th and 16th centuries, religious orders played a significant role in shaping communal identities and spiritual life. Here, the artist depicts the monk in simple robes, holding what appears to be a rosary or a string of prayer beads. The downturned gaze might invite contemplation on the complex negotiation between earthly identity, spiritual devotion, and moral authority. The use of the print medium suggests a desire to disseminate the image widely, engaging a broad audience with notions of piety, morality, and communal identity. How does the artist invite us to reflect on the role of religious figures and their influence on society? As you engage with this image, consider how it reflects both the spiritual aspirations and the social realities of its time.