Mozaïek van Maria uit de Kathedraal van Cefalù 1869 - 1925

Antoon Derkinderen created this pencil drawing titled 'Mosaic of Mary from the Cathedral of Cefalù'. Derkinderen was working in a time of social change and cultural reassessment, and his art reflects the shifts in religious and cultural values of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In this sketch, Mary is not simply a religious icon, but an emblem of idealized womanhood, echoing the period's complex views on women’s roles. It is interesting how Derkinderen navigates the space between religious representation and secular interpretation. His drawing brings forward questions about tradition, belief, and the evolving status of women in society. The emotional impact of the artwork also lies in its simplicity. The sketch is soft and approachable, inviting you to consider the spiritual and human dimensions of Mary. It is a drawing that reflects a moment in history when art was deeply engaged in redefining cultural and social identities.