Doop van de kamerling before 1646

Christoffel van Sichem II made this woodcut titled "Baptism of the Chamberlain" sometime in the early to mid-17th century. The image depicts a scene from the Acts of the Apostles, where Philip baptizes an Ethiopian court official. But why this subject, and why this style? The print was produced in the Netherlands, during a time of religious reformation and conflict. Van Sichem was known for his detailed and narrative woodcuts, often illustrating biblical stories. The choice to depict this particular scene—the conversion of a foreign dignitary—resonates with the Protestant emphasis on the universal accessibility of faith, regardless of social status. The detailed rendering of clothing, landscape, and architectural elements offer us a glimpse into the cultural mindset of the time. The chamberlain’s garments and the scenery are imagined through a European lens. By studying the historical context and the artist's other works, we can understand the social and religious values that shaped this image.