Hemelvaart 1650 - 1700

This 17th-century engraving titled "Hemelvaart" (Ascension) depicts the biblical scene of Jesus Christ ascending to Heaven. The dynamic composition, created by an anonymous artist, portrays Christ rising toward a bright, heavenly light, his body contorted in motion. Below, a group of apostles look up in awe and prayer, their bodies arranged in a semicircle as they witness the ascension. The use of chiaroscuro, with contrasting light and dark areas, creates depth and drama. This artwork, now part of the Rijksmuseum collection, offers a powerful visual interpretation of a significant religious event.