In nomine Patris et Filii et Spiritus Sancti, amen 1895

Antoon Derkinderen created this watercolour artwork entitled 'In nomine Patris et Filii et Spiritus Sancti, amen.' The image is a visual representation of a prayer in Latin, translating to 'In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, amen.' It employs a medieval style of manuscript illumination, referencing a time when the church was a central institution in European society and spirituality was woven into daily life. Derkinderen, a Dutch artist, lived through a period of significant social and political change in Europe. The rise of secularism challenged the traditional authority of the church. Here, we can ask: Is Derkinderen reaffirming traditional values or reinterpreting them for a modern audience? The answer might lie in the broader context of the Dutch art scene, where artists grappled with questions of national identity and cultural heritage. To understand Derkinderen's intent, we might turn to historical records, religious texts, and art criticism of the period. By examining this artwork through a socio-political lens, we gain insights into the complex relationship between art, religion, and society.