Zittende man met gevouwen handen, achter een bijbel c. 1734 - 1801

Jacobus Buys created this ink drawing, *Zittende man met gevouwen handen, achter een bijbel*, sometime in the 18th century. The Age of Enlightenment was in full swing and we can see some of its emphasis on individualism reflected in the subject matter. The man depicted is seated at what appears to be an altar, with his hands clasped in prayer before an open bible. There is a sense of quiet introspection about him. The choice to show him in a moment of private devotion provides a counterpoint to the grand, public-facing religious art that was popular at the time. Buys captures a shift towards personal piety. Consider the emotional resonance of this intimate portrayal during a period of significant social and philosophical change, as traditional religious authority began to wane. It offers a glimpse into the changing dynamics between the individual and institutionalized religion.