Artwork
Procession in the Old Catholic Church in The Hague with priest Cornelis Hendrikus van Vlooten
Procession in the Old Catholic Church in The Hague with priest Cornelis Hendrikus van Vlooten is an oil painting by the Impressionist artist Isaac Israëls. It dates from 1891 and is held in the collection of the Museum Catharijneconvent.
About this work
Overview
The work exemplifies a genre scene, rendered with the characteristic brushwork and atmospheric qualities of the Impressionist movement.
Isaac Israëls, a Dutch artist associated with Amsterdam Impressionism, completed Procession in the Old Catholic Church in The Hague with priest Cornelis Hendrikus van Vlooten in 1891. This oil painting captures a religious ceremony, specifically a processional parade within the H.H. Jacobus- en Augustinuskerk. The work exemplifies a genre scene, rendered with the characteristic brushwork and atmospheric qualities of the Impressionist movement. It is currently housed in the Rijksmuseum's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The painting portrays a solemn procession unfolding inside the H.H. Jacobus- en Augustinuskerk. A central figure, identified as priest Cornelis Hendrikus van Vlooten, holds a gleaming chalice, his expression serious. He is surrounded by other men in traditional vestments, some carrying tall candles, creating a sense of ritual and community. The scene offers a glimpse into the religious practices of the period, emphasizing the ceremonial aspects of the Old Catholic Church.
Technique & Style
Israëls employed an Impressionistic approach, characterized by rough, visible brushstrokes that lend a textured quality to the figures and their attire. The palette primarily consists of dark browns and whites, contributing to a subdued yet evocative atmosphere. The artist's use of impasto, applying thick layers of oil paint, creates a tactile surface. This technique makes the robes and faces appear almost three-dimensional, enhancing the visual depth and immediacy of the scene.
History & Provenance
Created in 1891, this oil painting is a notable example of Isaac Israëls's work from his early career, reflecting his engagement with contemporary life and religious subjects. The piece has since entered the collection of the Rijksmuseum, where it contributes to the institution's representation of Dutch art from the late 19th century. Its inclusion highlights Israëls's position within the broader context of Dutch Impressionism.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Isaac Lazarus Israëls (Dutch pronunciation: ; 3 February 1865 – 7 October 1934) was a Dutch painter associated with the Amsterdam Impressionism movement.
