Koning kijkend naar de zon - Karel Petrus Cornelis de Bazel

A symbolic etching by Karel Petrus Cornelis de Bazel depicting a king in a gesture of reverence toward the sun, inscribed with the word 'SAT'.

This etching by Karel Petrus Cornelis de Bazel captures a moment of ritualistic contemplation. The figure, identified as a king, stands with arms raised in a gesture of reverence toward a radiant sun. Within the solar disc, the word 'SAT' is inscribed, suggesting a connection to metaphysical or esoteric concepts often explored by the artist during this period. De Bazel was a prominent Dutch architect and designer, and his graphic work frequently displays a disciplined approach to geometry and symbolic narrative.

The composition is highly structured, relying on a vertical orientation that emphasises the connection between the earthly monarch and the celestial body. The artist employs a rhythmic, linear technique to render the sun's rays, creating a sense of vibration that contrasts with the solid, static form of the king. The king's attire is adorned with geometric patterns, reflecting the artist's interest in decorative arts and the stylistic influence of the Arts and Crafts movement. The figure is rendered with a degree of abstraction, prioritising symbolic clarity over anatomical realism.

De Bazel's work from the 1890s often reflects the influence of Theosophy and a search for universal truths through visual language. This print is an example of his ability to synthesise architectural precision with mystical themes. The stark contrast between the dark, heavy lines of the figure and the lighter, swirling marks of the sun creates a balanced visual tension. This piece offers a glimpse into the intellectual climate of the Dutch fin-de-siècle, where artists sought to bridge the gap between the material world and spiritual inquiry through clean, intentional design.