Geduld (Patientia) 1591 - 1645

Editor: This is "Geduld," or "Patientia," by Christoffel van Sichem II, a print from sometime between 1591 and 1645. It’s incredibly detailed, and what strikes me is the tension between the figures—an angel and a grotesque, beastly character both vying for this central figure. What do you see in this piece, in terms of its symbolism? Curator: This print encapsulates the baroque fascination with allegory. Consider the winged figure embodying Patience, sheltering the human figure, perhaps representing the soul, from the monstrous form of vice or suffering. "Patientia," notice, hovers above. Doesn’t the beast's grasp suggest the relentless nature of adversity? The tension you identified, it’s vital; this isn't a simple good versus evil scenario. Editor: Right, it’s more complicated than that. So the beast and the angel are external forces acting on the human soul? Curator: Precisely! Think about the inscription at the bottom. Does that reinforce or challenge the visual narrative? "The pious, brought by God’s hand into bitter suffering…the more he is oppressed, the more strength he acquires.” What’s implied about endurance and faith? How does patience help the pious face their tormentors? Editor: The inscription frames patience not as passive acceptance, but as a source of strength gained through enduring suffering. It makes the struggle almost productive. I’m now thinking about patience as a method. Curator: It's an active virtue, crucial in the face of relentless opposition. We can see in "Geduld" that faith, or Godliness, prevails. Think of its impact in the 17th Century, amid religious and social upheaval. It would suggest the enduring need to stand firm to one’s principles! Editor: It's amazing how much symbolic weight is packed into a single image. I definitely have a new perspective on the idea of patience.