Illustratie bij gedicht uit dichtbundel Sagesse van Paul Verlaine 1895 - 1897

This illustration for Paul Verlaine's poem from Sagesse was created by Maurice Denis, who was a leading figure in the Symbolist and Nabis movements. The illustration's stark, graphic style, reminiscent of woodcuts, offers a visual echo of the poem's themes of spiritual reflection and emotional intensity. The draped figures, perhaps nuns or veiled women, evoke a sense of solemnity and introspection. They appear caught in a moment of prayer or contemplation. Looking at this image, I think about how the late 19th century was a time of significant social change and religious questioning, which influenced artists like Denis to explore spirituality and symbolism in their work. How does Denis balance his devotion to his religious convictions with the need to create fresh narratives rather than upholding conventional portrayals?