De ongelovige Thomas herkent Christus 1650

Here, in the Rijksmuseum, is a drawing by Samuel van Hoogstraten titled ‘The incredulous Thomas recognizes Christ’ executed with pen in brown ink. Notice how the composition divides the scene into distinct groups. On the left, we see figures seated at a table, their forms more defined and grounded. In contrast, the central and right figures are drawn with lighter, more ethereal lines, creating a sense of otherworldly presence. Van Hoogstraten masterfully uses line to convey not just form, but also the emotional and spiritual weight of the scene. The stark contrast between the solid forms and the delicate lines surrounding Christ serves to highlight the central theme of faith versus doubt. It's a visual embodiment of the transition from skepticism to belief, captured in the very structure of the drawing. The composition invites us to reflect on how belief materializes from intangible doubts.