Drie figuren 1874 - 1932

Mathieu Lauweriks made this print called ‘Three Figures’ using woodcut, but its date is currently unknown. Lauweriks was a Dutch architect, designer, and art theorist, whose work reflected a deep interest in geometric and symbolic forms. Here, a central, iconic figure stands flanked by two attendants, all rendered in a stylized manner reminiscent of medieval art. The composition is rigidly symmetrical, filled with geometric motifs and arcane symbols. The vertical orientation and use of woodcut connect it to the visual language of religious icons. Lauweriks was deeply influenced by theosophy and sought to integrate its principles into his designs. This piece seems to reflect the theosophical belief in underlying geometric harmony, or the pursuit of universal knowledge through symbolism. To fully understand this work, it would be useful to delve deeper into the history of theosophy and its influence on early 20th-century art and design. The key is to recognize that art is never made in a vacuum. It always reflects the ideas and values circulating in the culture of its time.