Gezicht op de Sint-Michielsabdij te Antwerpen 1726 - 1734

David Coster created this print of the Sint-Michiels Abbey in Antwerp sometime in the early 18th century, using etching and engraving. During this period, Antwerp was part of the Austrian Netherlands, a society deeply influenced by the Catholic Church. Coster's depiction of the abbey is more than just an architectural record; it reflects the social and religious values of his time. Monasteries like Sint-Michiels were not only centers of religious life, but also powerful landowners and influential institutions. The print subtly reinforces their prominence. Note the highly structured, orderly layout of the abbey. This suggests a society where hierarchy and religious observance shaped daily life. It invites us to reflect on the roles and representations of religious institutions in shaping European identity and power dynamics. The detailed cityscape captures a moment in time and the enduring impact of religious entities on the social fabric.