De lijkdienst, 16 1639 - 1699

"De lijkdienst, 16" is an anonymous 17th-century Dutch etching depicting a Catholic Mass, likely a Requiem Mass. The scene features a priest performing the ceremony at an altar, surrounded by mourners. The artwork's small size (118 mm x 81 mm) and intimate portrayal of the event highlight the solemnity and personal nature of the occasion. The etching provides a glimpse into the rituals and beliefs of the Catholic Church in the Dutch Golden Age, while also serving as a reminder of the universality of death and mourning. The inscription at the bottom of the etching further emphasizes the spiritual significance of the Mass and its relevance to both the living and the dead. This piece, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, offers a unique glimpse into the artistic and religious practices of its time.