Monstrance c. 1520

This monstrance was made by Jan Geldolfs Hoghenzoon out of silver, and is an example of religious art in the Netherlands. Its architecture evokes a sense of sacred space and divine presence. The Gothic-inspired design, reminiscent of church architecture, reflects the powerful influence of the Catholic Church in the region. The intricate details and precious materials emphasize the importance of the Eucharist within Catholic doctrine. The monstrance would have been used in religious ceremonies. We can consider the socio-economic context in which this object was created. The Netherlands was a center of trade and wealth, and this is reflected in the opulence of this sacred object. By studying the history of the Catholic Church in the Netherlands, and looking at the patronage of religious art, we can gain a deeper understanding of the social conditions that made this object possible. This shows how art is embedded within, and reflects its specific historical time.