Gabriël verklaart Daniëls visioen 1645 - 1646

Christoffel van Sichem II created this woodcut print, “Gabriel Explaining Daniel’s Vision,” sometime before his death in 1658. During the 17th century, the Dutch Republic saw a flourishing of printmaking, which democratized images and knowledge, bringing biblical scenes like this one into the homes of ordinary people. The print depicts the Old Testament prophet Daniel receiving a divine explanation of his vision from the angel Gabriel. Daniel kneels, overwhelmed, as Gabriel gestures towards the symbolic imagery: a ram, a goat, and a distant city. These symbols, laden with religious and political meaning, would have resonated deeply in a society shaped by the Protestant Reformation and its interpretations of scripture. Van Sichem’s choice of the woodcut technique, with its stark contrasts and bold lines, adds to the image’s dramatic intensity. Consider how the artist uses light and shadow to convey the divine encounter. The emotional weight of the scene is palpable; Daniel’s submission mirrors the religious devotion expected of believers during this period. This print not only illustrates a biblical story but also reflects the intense religious landscape of its time, inviting viewers to contemplate their own faith and place within it.