Apostel Thomas 1648 - 1678

Curator: Here we have Samuel van Hoogstraten's "Apostel Thomas," an engraving likely created sometime between 1648 and 1678, now held at the Rijksmuseum. Editor: My initial impression is one of austere dignity. The lines are so fine, yet they create a very compelling presence. He radiates an inner light, emphasized by that almost halo effect behind his head. Curator: Hoogstraten, while working in the baroque style, very consciously evokes a medieval feel in this print, particularly in the treatment of Thomas as a scholarly, almost iconic figure. It reflects a fascination with history and religious authority common in the period. It's fascinating how the printing process lends itself to disseminate such strong religious ideas in that era. Editor: Absolutely. Notice how Thomas is positioned: he is holding a book, possibly Scripture, and next to him, several other stacked tomes can be seen. Also, that staff – looks almost like a scepter, doesn't it? It's such an assertive symbol of authority. Curator: Yes, the book and the staff work to portray Thomas not only as a man of faith, but as an authority figure within the Church. In addition, the text at the bottom of the image in Dutch states that “My doubt disappeared through Christ’s radiance” revealing Hoogstraten’s view that the power of Faith triumphs over doubt. Editor: That’s a vital component! And the title inscribed in the cloth-like graphic element “Thomas”, combined with that radiance, all work together to construct a layered narrative, of not only an image of an apostle but as one embodying devotion over the disbelief attributed to him. I find the formal qualities—the lines themselves—almost reinforce that sense of unwavering conviction. Curator: Indeed. It’s a really strong reminder how powerful an impact printmaking held over political and religious audiences. Editor: This piece invites us to reconsider our own symbols of authority, religious or otherwise. How have the meanings and feelings contained in those images been transformed throughout history? Curator: And how did printing as a technological feat allow this message to reverberate through the Netherlands and beyond? Quite interesting indeed.