Portret van Adam Sasbout 1604

Philips Galle created this engraving of Adam Sasbout in the Netherlands around 1603. Sasbout was a Franciscan from Delft, a town known for its progressive religious and political views during this era. The print, now held at the Rijksmuseum, offers insight into the cultural and religious landscape of the Dutch Republic at the start of the 17th century. Galle's decision to portray Sasbout as a scholar, deeply engaged with classical and religious texts, emphasizes the value placed on intellectual pursuits within religious circles. The inclusion of Latin text below the portrait, referencing Sasbout's scholarly achievements, further reinforces this image. Consider the role of institutions like the Franciscan order in shaping intellectual life, and how artists like Galle contributed to the visual representation and dissemination of knowledge. To better understand this print, research into the history of the Franciscan order, and the socio-political context of Delft and the Dutch Republic is essential.