Heilige Ignatius van Loyola 1676 - 1745

This engraving of Saint Ignatius of Loyola was created by Georg Heinrich Schifflin, an artist working in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Schifflin’s work provides a window into the visual culture of the period, particularly how religious figures were represented and understood within the context of the Catholic Church. This portrait of Saint Ignatius, the founder of the Jesuit order, offers a glimpse into the intersection of religious devotion, power, and identity during this era. The halo symbolizes his sainthood, yet his humanity is not erased, hinting at the complex negotiation between earthly and divine identity. Note how the artist uses the symbols of his power and faith, as well as the lettering ‘IHS’ on the emblem he holds. The gaze is directed slightly off to the side, and a walking stick is held in the left hand – these stylistic choices offer insight into the character of the Saint as both a powerful religious leader, and an itinerant preacher and teacher. Ultimately, this work serves as both a devotional object and a historical document, reflecting the enduring influence of Saint Ignatius and the Jesuit order on the religious and cultural landscape.