Johannes de Evangelist met zijn volgelingen 1644 - 1665

Michel Dorigny created this print, titled "Johannes de Evangelist met zijn volgelingen," during the height of the Baroque era. Dorigny, working in France, was influenced by the religious and political climate of his time, when the Catholic Church played a dominant role in society. This artwork depicts John the Evangelist, a key figure in Christianity, amidst his followers. What’s fascinating here is how Dorigny positions John, not as an ethereal being, but as an accessible figure surrounded by everyday people. The print also shows pagan figures, and an eagle on the temple. Dorigny seems to be playing with power dynamics, showing how the saint is capable of taming both man and beast. It makes you wonder how power is perceived and wielded in religious and secular contexts. The emotional depth of the piece lies in the expressions of the figures; they convey a mix of awe, curiosity, and reverence. "Johannes de Evangelist met zijn volgelingen" invites us to reflect on the role of religion in shaping social identities and the intimate, personal connections forged within communities of faith.