Sacrament van de ziekenzalving 1576

Philips Galle created this engraving, "Sacrament van de ziekenzalving," sometime between 1537 and 1612. The composition is organised around a central scene depicting the anointing of the sick, framed by architectural elements and text panels. The use of line is meticulous, creating a sense of depth and structure within the limited space. Galle employs a visual language deeply rooted in religious symbolism and the formal conventions of his time. The architecture, the figures' gestures, and the arrangement of space all convey specific meanings within the context of religious sacraments. The engraving can be viewed as a semiotic system, where each element acts as a signifier, contributing to the overall narrative. The artwork's structure and the interplay of its components offer insights into the cultural and religious discourses that shaped its creation. It invites us to contemplate the complex relationship between form, meaning, and belief in early modern Europe.