Tekstblad bij de spotprent van de begrafenis van dominee Abraham van de Velde, 1677 1677

This anonymous broadside from 1677, now held at the Rijksmuseum, memorializes the Reverend Johannes van de Velde. But this isn't a straightforward commemoration; the text surrounding the title reveals a more complex narrative. Van de Velde was an "Inquisitor over the Heretics," a figure of authority in a time of intense religious and political strife in the Netherlands. This broadside offers a glimpse into the social dynamics of the 17th century, a period marked by strict religious norms and the persecution of those deemed heretical. As an inquisitor, Van de Velde wielded considerable power, shaping the lives and beliefs of those within his community. The list of names accompanying his memorial suggests a network of religious figures and perhaps those impacted by his actions. It prompts reflection on the fine line between religious devotion and oppression, urging us to consider the human cost of ideological conflict. How did Van de Velde’s actions affect the lives of those labeled as heretics?