God scheidt het licht van de duisternis 1819

Jozef Karel De Meulemeester created this print, "God Separating Light from Darkness," in the late 18th or early 19th century. It illustrates a scene from the Book of Genesis, where God establishes order in the cosmos by dividing light from darkness. It was made in Belgium, a region with a rich artistic heritage deeply intertwined with religious institutions. The image reflects the cultural and religious values of the time, emphasizing the power of God to create a structured universe. Meulemeester's print belongs to a broader tradition of religious art that served to reinforce the teachings of the Church and promote social cohesion. Art historians explore archives, theological texts, and historical records to understand the print’s meaning. By investigating its social and institutional context, we can better understand the enduring influence of religion on art and society.