Ontwerp voor een gelegenheidsversiering van het hoogaltaar in de St. Augustinuskerk te Antwerpen 1707

Hendrik-Frans Verbruggen made this design for a temporary decoration of the high altar in St. Augustinus Church in Antwerp, using pencil, pen, and brush in grey and brown ink, with grey wash, over black chalk on paper. Look closely, and you'll notice the elaborate architectural structure. The precise use of line and shadow gives this drawing a strong sense of depth and volume, almost as if it were a three-dimensional model. The design showcases Verbruggen's exceptional draughtsmanship and his understanding of spatial relationships. While this drawing is not itself made of precious materials, it demonstrates the great skill required to produce extravagant displays. Consider the labor involved in realizing such a design in full scale, particularly the carving of stone, and the social stratification of a society that allows for such grand gestures of faith. By focusing on the artistry and social context, we can appreciate the full meaning of the work, blurring the lines between fine art and craft.