Baldakijn met Christusbeeld 1772 - 1780

Jean François de Neufforge created this print, Baldakijn met Christusbeeld, in the 18th century. The print presents a design for a baldachin, a canopy often placed over an altar, featuring a statue of Christ. Neufforge was working during a period where the Catholic Church still had considerable cultural and political influence. This context helps to understand why he may have focused on religious architecture. Notice the rigid symmetry and classical architectural elements. The aesthetic reflects a desire for order, divinity, and hierarchy. The statue of Christ under the baldachin is rendered in the classical style, imbuing him with a serene dignity. Consider how Neufforge’s identity as a designer working within a society deeply shaped by religious doctrine and aristocratic patronage might have influenced his artistic choices. The design not only serves a religious function, but also subtly reinforces the social hierarchies of the time. The artwork offers a glimpse into the complex interplay between artistic expression, religious ideology, and social structures.