Opus 862, Christus uit den dood herrezen wandelt droevig in den holen van 't bewustzijn - Albert Plasschaert

A haunting Symbolist work by Albert Plasschaert, depicting a figure emerging from darkness into a state of introspective, spiritual melancholy.

This work by the Dutch critic and artist Albert Plasschaert presents a highly subjective, internalised vision. The title, which translates to 'Christ risen from the dead walks sadly in the hollows of consciousness', directs the viewer toward a psychological interpretation of a religious subject. Rather than a traditional depiction of the Resurrection, Plasschaert focuses on the existential weight of the figure. The composition is dominated by a central, luminous yellow form that suggests a human silhouette. This figure is surrounded by a dense, atmospheric field of dark, swirling lines. These marks create a sense of agitation and enclosure, reflecting the 'hollows of consciousness' mentioned in the title. The application of paint is rhythmic and repetitive, building a texture that obscures the background and pulls the eye toward the central light. Plasschaert was better known for his writing on art than his own painting, yet this piece demonstrates a clear engagement with the Symbolist movement. The work avoids literal representation in favour of an evocative, mood-driven aesthetic. The contrast between the bright, central figure and the murky, linear surroundings creates a tension between spiritual emergence and psychological entrapment. The use of line is particularly notable, as it does not define form in a classical sense but instead creates a web of energy that permeates the entire canvas. This approach aligns with the period's interest in the unseen forces of the mind and the soul, moving away from the objective observation of the natural world toward a more personal, interior reality. The print captures the subtle variations in the original brushwork, allowing for a close examination of the artist's technique and the layered application of colour.