Heilige Olympias van Constantinopel als kluizenares 1590 - 1619

This engraving, Heilige Olympias van Constantinopel als kluizenares, was created by Boëtius Adamsz. Bolswert. The print depicts Saint Olympia of Constantinople as a hermit. Consider the historical context: Olympia was part of the late Roman aristocracy. She was wealthy, influential, and a woman in a world dominated by men, and her position gave her power, but also made her a target. After being widowed at a young age, she devoted her life and wealth to the church, but faced banishment and exile due to her association with John Chrysostom, the Archbishop of Constantinople. In this print, Olympia is in a humble setting. Note the crucifix and skull, symbols of mortality and devotion, alongside the rosary and prayer book. She’s presented in a moment of contemplation, her posture conveying humility and introspection. Bolswert invites us to reflect on Olympia's life of privilege, piety, and eventual isolation. It's a narrative about the intersection of faith, power, and gender in the early Christian era.