Apostel Jakobus de Meerdere (Major) met pelgrimshoed en pelgrimsstaf 1517 - 1577

This engraving of Saint James the Major, made by an anonymous artist, is now held in the Rijksmuseum. Pilgrimage played an important role in the social and religious life of early modern Europe. Here, James is shown as a pilgrim, recognizable through his hat, staff, and book, all alluding to his legendary travels. Produced during a time of religious conflict, we might consider this image as an affirmation of traditional Catholic practices. The print may have circulated as a cheap, easily reproducible image for personal devotion. To understand the full meaning of such an image, we must consider its function within the religious and social context of its time. This can be done by researching the popular religious movements, the printing industry and its distribution networks. Art becomes meaningful through historical inquiry.