Titelpagina voor: Willem Sluiter, Psalmen, lof-sangen, ende geestelike liedekens, 1661 1661

Jochem van Stegeren created this title page for Willem Sluiter’s book of psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs in 1661. During the 17th century, the Dutch Republic experienced a period of immense cultural and religious change, following the reformation. This title page gives us a glimpse into the religious literature that shaped the spiritual lives of the people. The text, printed in Dutch, emphasizes the importance of singing praises to God, reflecting the communal and personal dimensions of faith. The imagery, with the symbolic bird, book and text "Renovabitur," suggests spiritual renewal. How did these hymns and psalms reflect the personal relationship between the individual and their faith? And what role did they play in shaping the cultural and religious identity of the Dutch people during a time of great transformation?