H. Bartholomeus 1608 - 1649

Claude Mellan created this engraving of H. Bartholomeus in the 17th century. During this time, religious imagery played a significant role in shaping cultural identity. Mellan, a French artist, lived through the Counter-Reformation, a period of intense religious and political upheaval. Here, Saint Bartholomew is depicted holding a book and a knife, which alludes to his martyrdom. His gaze is intense and directed. This image reflects the period’s emphasis on the emotional and spiritual connection between the believer and the divine. Mellan’s choice to depict Bartholomew, a saint known for his missionary work and brutal death, speaks to the themes of faith, sacrifice, and the spread of Christianity which were central to the era. The engraving offers a glimpse into the religious and cultural values of 17th-century Europe, highlighting the intersection of faith, identity, and the narratives of martyrdom that shaped the collective consciousness.