Spotprent van de begrafenis van dominee Abraham van de Velde, 1677 1677

This anonymous print from 1677, now held at the Rijksmuseum, satirizes the funeral of Reverend Abraham van de Velde. The image reflects the intense religious and political debates within the Dutch Republic during the 17th century. The artist employs potent imagery, depicting mourners with donkey ears, symbolizing ignorance or foolishness. This imagery is set against a backdrop of religious iconography and textual banners, the print critiques the established religious figures and their followers. The emotional weight of this piece resides in its exposure of the deep divisions within Dutch society, revealing tensions between religious doctrine and individual belief. This artwork doesn't simply depict a funeral; it interrogates the power structures of the church and the conformity demanded of its members. The artist boldly challenges traditional representations, offering a narrative that questions authority and celebrates the spirit of dissent.