Katafalk met kaarsen, nr. 1 1559 - 1619

Joannes van Doetechum created this print of a ‘catafalque with candles’ sometime before his death in 1605. The dominant symbol is the multitude of candles, each representing a soul, a life, now extinguished, yet flickering in collective memory. The presence of candles here, on this elaborate structure built for the dead, invites us to consider their deeper significance, resonating with ancient rituals of light and remembrance. Think of the Jewish tradition of lighting a Yahrzeit candle, or similar customs found in diverse cultures, to honor the departed. This symbolic light connects us across centuries. Consider too, the emotional power of light against darkness – a universal metaphor for hope overcoming despair, life persisting beyond death. The emotional and psychological impact of this spectacle lies in its appeal to our deepest fears and hopes, engaging viewers on a subconscious level and reminding us of the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth.