Wijwaterbak 1659 - 1732

This anonymous print, known as "Wijwaterbak," presents an ornamental design for a stoup, a vessel to hold holy water. Created in a period where religion and art were deeply interwoven, the print reflects the visual culture that shaped the spiritual lives of the people. The elaborate detailing, with cherubs and ornate foliage, speaks to the aesthetics of the time, where beauty was seen as a pathway to the divine. Yet, beyond its religious function, the stoup’s design offers a glimpse into social hierarchies and cultural values. The presence of cherubs, often depicted as innocent and pure, contrasts with the more masculine, powerful symbols of authority typically associated with religious institutions. The print offers a space to consider the diverse experiences of those who engaged with the art, and it invites us to think about the personal dimensions of faith and the varied expressions of devotion.