Heilige Thecla als kluizenares 1644

This 1644 engraving by Christoffel van Sichem depicts Saint Thecla kneeling in prayer. Thecla is a 4th-century Christian saint known for her devoutness and strength in the face of persecution. The image highlights her contemplative nature, with her head bowed in devotion. Surrounding her are symbols of her faith: a rosary, a book, and a skull, representing mortality and the transience of earthly life. The engraving, now part of the Rijksmuseum collection, reflects the religious fervor and artistic mastery of the Dutch Golden Age.