Wierookvaten en deurknoppen met dierenkoppen 1857 - 1859

This delicate pencil drawing shows designs for incense burners and doorknobs with animal heads, by Pierre Cuypers. Cuypers lived in the Netherlands during a period of religious revival. This revival influenced his designs of Catholic churches and cathedrals, for which he is best known. His style reflects the Neo-Gothic movement, blending religious symbolism with elaborate ornamentation. The drawing offers a glimpse into the visual language of faith and power in 19th century Europe, as seen through Cuypers' eyes. The fierce animal heads contrast with the ornate religious objects, which speaks to the complex relationship between sacred and secular authority at the time. These items can also give us insight into the homes and social structures of the time.