Opstanding van Christus 1571 - 1632

This engraving of the Resurrection was made by Antoni van Leest, a Dutch artist, around 1575-1592. It depicts the moment when Jesus Christ rises from his tomb, surrounded by bewildered and frightened Roman soldiers. This image participates in a long history of Christian art that has been shaped by theological doctrines, the patronage of the Church, and by ever-evolving social and political contexts. In the Netherlands, the Reformation led to new interpretations of Christian doctrine and the questioning of traditional religious authority. Artists like van Leest responded to this changing environment by producing images that sought to inspire personal faith and devotion. To fully understand the meaning of this artwork, we have to dig into its historical context, examining not only the artist’s life and influences, but also the broader intellectual, religious, and political currents of the late 16th century. We must consider the ways in which this image may have resonated with contemporary audiences.