Dissidium In Ecclesia, from "Allegories of the Christian Faith, from Christian and Profane Allegories" 1575 - 1617

Hendrick Goltzius created this engraving, Dissidium In Ecclesia, meaning “discord in the church,” to be included in a series called "Allegories of the Christian Faith." The scene, set inside a grand church, depicts a chaotic and violent event with people fighting, being attacked, and lying dead on the floor. Produced during the Counter-Reformation, this image reflects the religious conflicts and tensions of the time. The struggle between differing religious beliefs often led to persecution, war, and social upheaval, and this work visualizes those real-world horrors. Through the graphic depiction of violence within a sacred space, Goltzius critiques the religious institutions of his era and presents a scene that is both disturbing and thought-provoking. The border, adorned with symbolic vignettes and biblical quotes, reinforces the theme of religious discord and its consequences. The use of allegory allows Goltzius to address sensitive issues indirectly, inviting viewers to contemplate the deeper meanings behind the depicted events. The artwork captures the emotional intensity and moral complexity of a society grappling with religious division.