Bas-reliëf in de Sint-Hippolytuskerk te Middelstum 1890 - 1910

This bas-relief in the Sint-Hippolytuskerk in Middelstum is an intriguing artifact from an anonymous creator that offers a glimpse into medieval society. Religious art during this period served not just as decoration but as a visual tool to educate a largely illiterate population about religious stories and moral codes. Here we see a queen holding a baby, possibly alluding to the Virgin Mary and infant Jesus, and several men who are standing or kneeling before them. The Latin inscription above lends an air of authority, reinforcing the Church’s power. These works were often commissioned by the wealthy or powerful. The choice to depict certain figures can reveal a lot about the patron's identity and values. Although the artist remains unknown, the work stands as a testament to the complex interplay between faith, power, and artistic expression in the medieval world. It’s an invitation to reflect on the stories we tell ourselves and the values we choose to immortalize.