H. Gelasius II 1615 - 1676

This engraving of H. Gelasius II was made by Theodor Matham in the Dutch Republic during the seventeenth century. The image depicts the Pope as a figure of authority, holding a book in one hand and a staff in the other. The radiance around his head and the clouds behind suggest his divine connection. Made during the Dutch Golden Age, this artwork reflects the religious and political tensions of the time. While the Dutch Republic was predominantly Protestant, images of Catholic figures still circulated. This print, like many others, would have served to reinforce the power and legitimacy of the Catholic Church. The social conditions of the 17th century heavily influenced the production and reception of such images. The rise of print culture meant that ideas and images could be disseminated more widely, contributing to both religious propaganda and artistic expression. To truly understand this artwork, we must consider the historical context, including the religious conflicts and the rise of print culture in the Dutch Republic. Researching the biographies of the artist and the patron, as well as the theological debates of the time, will provide a deeper insight into its meaning.