Portret van Vincent de Paul 1666 - 1707

This is Gérard Edelinck’s portrait of Vincent de Paul, an engraving of approximately 250 by 183 mm. Edelinck's work gives us a window into the representation and perception of religious figures in 17th-century Europe, a period marked by both religious fervor and social stratification. Considered the "apostle of charity," Vincent de Paul, who was born to peasant farmers, dedicated himself to serving the poor and marginalized. He founded the Congregation of the Mission, also known as the Lazarists, and co-founded the Daughters of Charity. Edelinck’s engraving portrays de Paul with a somber expression, his gaze both gentle and penetrating, suggesting a man of deep empathy and resolve. The lines etched into the metal capture the texture of his simple clerical garments and the contours of his face, mapping a life of devotion and hardship. The portrait offers a glimpse into the visual culture of the time, reflecting how religious figures were both idealized and humanized. This portrait invites us to reflect on how individuals, even within rigid social structures, can strive to enact change, challenging us to consider our own roles in addressing inequality and suffering.