The Nieuwe Kerk in Amsterdam is best known for its expositions featuring treasures from exotic countries, familiar and unfamiliar cultures and religions. However, the beauty of the interior of this medieval church is less well known to the public at large. It boasts, for instance, a rare 17th-century pulpit. It stands more than 10 meters high. Mischievous cherubs slide down the 'rope' of this pulpit with obvious enjoyment.
BIBLICAL PICTORIAL BOOK
Sculptor Albert Jansz. Vinckenbrinck worked on this pulpit from 1645 to 1664. These two dates are shown on the pulpit. It is a kind of biblical pictorial book. The most beautiful pictures are the six works of mercy. These have been designed as a stage with wings.
SELF-PORTRAIT
In front of the works of mercy stand four statues representing the evangelists. Vinckenbrinck also immortalized himself. The statue of the evangelist Lucas is a self-portrait of the sculptor. Lucas (with an ox as a symbol) was, after all, the patron saint of painters and sculptors. On the six corners of the pit the virtues are represented: Faith, Hope, Love, Justice, Prudence and Fortitude. A three-story-high tower graces the gigantic sounding board of the pulpit. This tower is populated by various 17th-century figures. Some of these men, women and children look down from the parapet with curiosity. |
|
Mail this
Address details
Top