Heilige Theonas van Oxyrynchum after 1636

Frederick Bloemaert created this print of Heilige Theonas van Oxyrynchum in the 17th century. Bloemaert was a member of a family of painters during the Dutch Golden Age. During this time, the Dutch Republic was flourishing as a major economic and cultural power, but also faced a deeply Calvinist religious environment. This image depicts Theonas, an early Christian saint from Egypt, in a serene, almost Edenic setting with animals. Instead of portraying Theonas in a grand or powerful way, he is shown performing an act of kindness, drawing water for the animals. The choice to depict Theonas in such a humble, pastoral way reflects the values of humility and piety that were important in the religious context of the time. The image may invite us to consider the relationship between humanity and the natural world, as well as the importance of compassion and care for all living creatures. It presents an idealized vision of harmony and spiritual devotion.