Vijf bijbelse taferelen op een blad

About this artwork

blad: hoogte 152 mm x breedte 91 mm

Art Historical Context

**Vijf bijbelse taferelen op een blad** (Five Biblical Scenes on a Sheet) is a delicate etching by Dutch artist Theodoor Koning, created in 1794. Measuring just 152 mm high by 91 mm wide—roughly the size of a modern postcard—this intimate print packs five religious vignettes onto a single sheet, showcasing Koning's skill in composing multifaceted narratives within a confined space. The title hints at a thoughtful arrangement of biblical moments, a common motif in European printmaking that allowed for devotional reflection or instructional use in homes and churches. Etching, Koning's chosen medium, involves coating a metal plate with acid-resistant ground, scratching designs into it, and immersing it in acid to etch fine lines. This technique, perfected in the 17th century by masters like Rembrandt, enabled precise detailing and multiple impressions from one plate—ideal for disseminating religious imagery affordably during the late Enlightenment era. In 1794, amid the political upheavals of the Batavian Republic in the Netherlands, such works preserved spiritual traditions amid secular shifts. This modest yet masterful piece reflects the enduring cultural role of biblical art in Dutch society, blending piety with technical virtuosity. Visitors will appreciate its compact storytelling, a window into 18th-century devotion and craftsmanship. (198 words)