Portret van H. Dominicus 1611 - 1647

This is Michel van Lochom’s portrait of Saint Dominic, made sometime in the first half of the 17th century. Van Lochom was working during the Counter-Reformation, a period when the Catholic Church sought to reassert its authority through art and piety after the rise of Protestantism. Consider the imagery: Dominic is depicted holding a crucifix and rosary, symbols of faith and devotion. Angels and lambs adorn the oval border, their presence underscoring Dominic's saintly status. But look closer at Dominic’s face. His gaze is directed upwards, conveying a sense of divine inspiration, but there's also a weariness in his eyes, a hint of the burdens of leadership and spiritual conviction. The portrait serves as a visual sermon, intended to inspire reverence and emulation. It suggests that even in the face of adversity, faith can provide solace and strength. It’s a powerful reminder of the emotional and spiritual dimensions of religious identity in a world undergoing profound change.