Matteüs de evangelist 1590 - 1650

Antoine Sallaert created this woodcut depicting Matteüs the Evangelist. Sallaert worked during a time of religious and political conflict, against the backdrop of the Counter-Reformation in the Spanish Netherlands. The imagery in this print reflects the period's emphasis on religious orthodoxy, yet it also navigates complex gender dynamics. An angel stands intimately close to Matteüs, guiding his hand as he writes. The angel’s presence underscores divine inspiration. However, it also raises questions about agency and authorship, especially when viewed through a gendered lens. Is Matteüs merely a vessel for divine will, or does he actively shape the narrative? Sallaert’s skilled handling of light and shadow adds an emotional dimension to the piece. The halo around Matteüs’ head suggests holiness, while the angel’s gentle touch communicates tenderness. This work serves as a reminder of the intertwined nature of religious, artistic, and societal identities.