Nehalennia-altaar, pl. 9 1843 - 1845

Tiemen Hooiberg created this print of the Nehalennia altar, during a time of burgeoning interest in classical antiquity. This lithograph depicts fragments of altars dedicated to the goddess Nehalennia, a deity of the Roman and pre-Roman Netherlands. What remains of these stones speaks to cross-cultural exchange and religious syncretism in the Roman Empire. Nehalennia, often depicted with Celtic and Roman attributes, embodies the merging of local traditions with imperial culture. The goddess was typically venerated by merchants and seafarers, who sought her protection for safe passage across the North Sea. This print not only documents archaeological artifacts, but also invites reflection on themes of trade, cultural exchange, and religious adaptation within broader historical narratives. Consider how the image captures not only the physical remains of the altar but also the fragmented nature of historical memory itself, prompting us to contemplate the lives and beliefs of those who once worshipped Nehalennia.