Figuur met vier armen en driehoekig aureool met cirkels - Karel Petrus Cornelis de Bazel

A striking woodcut by Karel Petrus Cornelis de Bazel, featuring a multi-armed figure within a geometric, symbolic halo.

This woodcut by the Dutch architect and designer Karel Petrus Cornelis de Bazel reflects the strong influence of Theosophy and esoteric symbolism on his work at the turn of the twentieth century. De Bazel was a member of the Theosophical Society, and his graphic output often explored themes of spiritual geometry, cosmic order, and the intersection of human and divine realms.

The composition features a central, multi-armed figure standing with arms crossed, framed by a triangular halo and intersecting circles. This geometric arrangement suggests a meditative or ritualistic state. Below, two smaller figures appear in postures of reverence or supplication. The stark contrast between the black ink and the paper surface emphasises the graphic clarity typical of the woodcut medium. De Bazel employs a rigorous, linear approach, where every element serves the overall symbolic structure rather than naturalistic representation.

His work is characterised by a disciplined application of symmetry and a preference for clear, rhythmic patterns. This piece demonstrates his ability to translate complex metaphysical concepts into a simplified visual language. The sharp, deliberate lines and the flattened perspective are hallmarks of his graphic style, which sought to balance modern design principles with ancient spiritual motifs. By stripping away extraneous detail, the artist directs the viewer toward the underlying structure of the image, inviting contemplation of its symbolic content. This print is an example of the Dutch Symbolist movement, which frequently utilised occult imagery to explore the unseen dimensions of human experience.