De apostel Jakobus Major 1508 - 1512

Lucas van Leyden created this engraving of ‘The Apostle James Major’ during the Northern Renaissance, a period marked by renewed interest in classical antiquity and humanism. Van Leyden’s depiction presents James as a humble pilgrim, staff in hand, rather than as a figure of divine authority. Notice the halo, which is a traditional symbol of holiness, yet it appears almost as an afterthought amidst the otherwise realistic portrayal. The image reflects the religious and social tensions brewing during the early 16th century. As the Protestant Reformation began to challenge the Catholic Church, artists like van Leyden grappled with evolving notions of faith and the role of religious figures in everyday life. The print invites us to consider the humanity of religious icons and the changing landscape of spiritual belief during a pivotal moment in European history. It encourages a personal connection to faith, echoing the Reformation's emphasis on individual interpretation and experience.