Artwork

Tailpiece: Selig sind die nicht sehen und doch glauben (Blessed are those who do not

Tailpiece: Selig sind die nicht sehen und doch glauben (Blessed are those who do not is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Ferdinand Olivier. It dates from 1823 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Ferdinand Olivier's 1823 lithograph, "Selig sind die nicht sehen und doch glauben" (Blessed are those who do not see and yet believe), is a print divided into three vertical panels, each conveying a distinct scene related to faith and devotion.

Subject & Meaning

The composition as a whole visually interprets the biblical quote at the bottom, emphasizing the theme of faith beyond sight.

The left panel depicts a serene couple in a field, holding hands, symbolizing personal, quiet faith. The central panel shows a cross with a figure, surrounded by praying figures, representing communal worship and sacrifice. The right panel illustrates a group resting under trees, possibly indicating rest through faith. The composition as a whole visually interprets the biblical quote at the bottom, emphasizing the theme of faith beyond sight.

Technique & Style

Executed in lithography, the print features soft, quickly drawn lines, suggesting a spontaneous or expressive approach to the medium. The overall aesthetic is characterized by simplicity and directness, focusing attention on the narrative and thematic elements.

History & Provenance

Created in 1823, specific details about the print's provenance (ownership history) and any notable exhibitions or collections it belongs to are not provided in the available information.

Context

The work reflects early 19th-century European religious themes in art, with lithography being a relatively new medium at the time, allowing for wider dissemination of images. The biblical quote in German underscores the piece's cultural and linguistic context.

Legacy

The lasting impact or influence of "Selig sind die nicht sehen und doch glauben" on subsequent art or religious iconography is not detailed in the provided information, highlighting a gap in the available historical or critical analysis of the work.