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Procession in the Old Catholic Church in The Hague with priest Cornelis Hendrikus van Vlooten by Isaac Israëls

Isaac Israëls · 1881-01-01

This painting, Procession in the Old Catholic Church in The Hague with priest Cornelis Hendrikus van Vlooten by Isaac Israëls (1891), was a significant purchase by the Dutch government, costing 11,000 guilders.

The artwork captures a solemn religious ceremony within the H.H. Jacobus- en Augustinuskerk. Focus on the central priest, his weary face and the reverence with which he handles the ornate chalice. Note the intricate details of his vestments and the soft, diffused light that lends an atmospheric quality to the scene.

Created in 1891, this piece is a prime example of Isaac Israëls's engagement with Impressionism and contemporary life. Its acquisition by the Rijksmuseum highlights its importance in the canon of Dutch art from the late 19th century.

This acquisition price underscores the value placed on contemporary Dutch art during this period.

Details

Look at the solemn priest in the center.
Look at the solemn priest in the center.
His vestments show the style of 1891.
His vestments show the style of 1891.
The soft light gives the scene an ethereal feel.
The soft light gives the scene an ethereal feel.
This sacred object is the focal point, symbolizing the religious ritual and its significance.
This sacred object is the focal point, symbolizing the religious ritual and its significance.
Transcript

This procession cost the Dutch government 11,000 guilders. Look at the solemn priest in the center. He holds the ornate chalice with great care. His vestments show the style of 1891. The soft light gives the scene an ethereal feel. The Rijksmuseum bought this in 1891.