Heilige Simeon Stylites de Oudere als kluizenaar 1644

This 1644 etching by Christoffel van Sichem, titled "Heilige Simeon Stylites de Oudere als kluizenaar," depicts the hermit Saint Simeon Stylites the Elder kneeling in prayer. The detailed engraving captures the saint's weathered features, long beard, and simple clothing. The setting includes a stark, rocky landscape and a prominent bare tree, emphasizing the saint's isolation and dedication to a solitary life of prayer. The artwork is currently housed in the Rijksmuseum. This small print exemplifies the artistic practices of the 17th century, showcasing a masterful use of line and shadow to convey both physical and spiritual realities.