Bruegel's Witches: Exhibition in Bruges Explores Origins of Stereotypical Imagery
An exhibition titled 'Bruegel's Witches' at the Sint-Janshospitaal in Bruges, Belgium, traces the origins of the stereotypical witch image to two engravings by Pieter Bruegel the Elder from around 450 years ago. The show features over 150 works by Bruegel and Flemish artists such as David Teniers II, Leonaert Bramer, Cornelis Saftleven, Bartholomeus Spranger, and Frans Francken II, alongside books, artifacts, and historical witchcraft tools. Curated by Renilde Vervoort, the exhibition combines art with historical and social context, including a section on witches in film and TV. Interactive elements include a candle given to visitors and a broom-riding experience over Bruges rooftops. The exhibition runs until June 26, 2016, and is part of a broader cultural initiative in Bruges, with the Groeningemuseum recommended as a complementary visit.
Key facts
- Pieter Bruegel the Elder created two engravings that established the stereotypical witch image in Western culture about 450 years ago.
- The exhibition 'Bruegel's Witches' is held at the Sint-Janshospitaal in Bruges, an 11th-century hospital turned museum.
- The show includes over 150 works by Bruegel and other Flemish artists like David Teniers II, Leonaert Bramer, Cornelis Saftleven, Bartholomeus Spranger, and Frans Francken II.
- Artifacts on display include magic mirrors, spell dolls, and punitive equipment.
- Interactive features: visitors receive a candle, and in the attic they can ride a broom and fly over Bruges via an interactive system.
- Curator Renilde Vervoort emphasizes the social and historical context, noting that natural phenomena were often attributed to witchcraft.
- The exhibition runs until June 26, 2016.
- The Groeningemuseum in Bruges is recommended for its collection spanning six centuries of Flemish and Belgian art.
Entities
Artists
- Pieter Bruegel the Elder
- David Teniers II
- Leonaert Bramer
- Cornelis Saftleven
- Bartholomeus Spranger
- Frans Francken II
Institutions
- Sint-Janshospitaal
- Groeningemuseum
- Artribune
Locations
- Bruges
- Belgium
- Mariastraat 38
- Flanders