Emanuel De Witte

Emanuel de Witte was a Dutch painter who covered a wide range of paintings including historical paintings, genre scenes, and portraits. After he settled in Amsterdam in 1652 his main concentration was primarily on architectural church interiors. The Interior of the Nieuwe Kerk, 1677 is a prime example of his work.

The Nieuwe Kerk contains a mixture of architectural styles, since it has been under construction from the 14th - 20th century. Typical to most medieval churches, the Nieuwe Kerk was enlarged step by step. The elevation of the Nieuwe Kerk is comparable to the Gothic style churches of France. The chapels around the choir are also reminiscent of French models. Also there is early Renaissance influence present in the modifications to the Northern Transept. There were Niches shaped like shells, and classically oriented frontons and pillars, which proved that a new era was on its way.

In 1645 the Nieuwe Kerk was almost burned down to ashes as a result of a fire that started on the roof. This is ironic since it survived the two great fires of 1421 and 1452 with only minor damage. After the fire in 1645 the Nieuwe Kerk was restored and rebuilt in a Gothic architectural style.

The Interior of the Nieuwe Kerk is the main focus of de Witte's painting. Inside the clustered columns and cabbage-leaf capitals are uniquely Amsterdam phenomena, since the only other church that had this type of pillar was the chapel devoted to the Miracle of Amsterdam. The corbel stones that supported the springing of the choir vault are decorated with the images of the twelve apostles. As a result of the major fire in 1645 most of the medieval interior was destroyed.

The interior refurbished after the fire of 1645 contains many valuable pieces. The classicist choir screen and the impressive woodcarvings of the pulpit are prime examples. The design of the large organ is often attributed to Jacob van Campen. Much of the interior is based upon the history of Amsterdam and the crucial role the city played in the Dutch Republic's position in the world. The stained glass windows facing north show Count William IV donating three St. Andrew's crosses to the city. The Nieuwe Kerk also contains tombs from some of the famous admirals who helped establish the power of the Dutch Republic. Overall the Nieuwe Kerk literally and figuratively surpasses the famous brick Gothic Oude Kerk of Amsterdam.