Apostel Bartholomeus before 1646

This engraving, "Apostel Bartholomeus" by Christoffel van (II) Sichem, depicts Saint Bartholomew holding a book and a spear. The artwork is part of a series of engravings of the twelve apostles, created before 1646. Saint Bartholomew, who is traditionally associated with the flaying of his skin, appears serene, his features and flowing hair meticulously rendered in the artist's signature style. This small-scale print, created in the Netherlands during the Dutch Golden Age, exemplifies the artistic quality and religious fervor that characterized the period. The work is currently held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.