Dimensions: height 206 mm, width 160 mm
Copyright: Rijks Museum: Open Domain
Adriaen Lommelin created this title page with bishops and heathen kings using an engraving technique sometime in the mid-17th century. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the religious and cultural mindset of the period. The image presents a clear visual hierarchy. Bishops, symbols of Christian authority, are juxtaposed against figures representing "heathen" or non-Christian kings, highlighting the power dynamics between the church and other belief systems. Produced in the Netherlands, a region deeply affected by religious conflict and the rise of Protestantism, this work reflects the ongoing struggle for cultural and spiritual dominance. The visual language used, the clothing, the props, all reinforce the perceived differences between these groups. Understanding such artwork requires delving into the religious history of the Netherlands, examining the role of the church, and exploring the visual codes used to represent different faiths. Art historical research unearths the meaning of images, revealing their place within a specific social and institutional context.
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