Felicitas met haar zeven zonen onthoofd; Jan Woutersz van Kuyk en Adriaanken Jans te Dordrecht verbrand, 1572 1805

Ernst Willem Jan Bagelaar created this drawing, "Felicitas met haar zeven zonen onthoofd; Jan Woutersz van Kuyk en Adriaanken Jans te Dordrecht verbrand, 1572", using pen and gray ink. The diptych format arranges two distinct scenes, each rendered with meticulous detail. In the upper panel, observe the brutal execution of Felicitas and her sons; the composition uses a horizontal orientation. The lower panel shows the burning at the stake of Jan Woutersz van Kuyk en Adriaanken Jans, using a vertical orientation to emphasize the height of the flames. Bagelaar employs line to define form, while the subtle gradations of gray ink create depth and shadow. These formal elements work together to convey the narrative content. Through its stark imagery and structured composition, the drawing serves not only as a historical record but also as a potent commentary on religious persecution and martyrdom. The artist challenges the viewer to confront uncomfortable truths through the formal arrangements of his art.