Bijbelsche zinnebeelden des Nieuwe Testament 1806 - 1830

This is Johan Noman's "Biblical Emblems of the New Testament," a print showcasing scenes framed with decorative borders. Each scene offers a glimpse into biblical narratives, rendered in detailed, miniature compositions. The formal arrangement immediately strikes you, a grid-like structure where each vignette operates as a sign. Noman uses a semiotic approach, presenting each scene as a visual emblem, complete with accompanying text to reinforce its meaning. Through these, Noman visually reinforces established religious narratives, each frame acting as a structured unit of meaning. Consider how the composition as a whole functions: the arrangement invites you to "read" the images sequentially, reinforcing the structure of religious dogma. Noman's work reflects a broader cultural engagement with visual systems and their capacity to communicate and reinforce ideological frameworks.