Beelden bij Grote Kerk

In the heart of Oss, a charming town in the Netherlands, stands a remarkable monument known as Beelden bij Grote Kerk. This captivating piece of art, whose original name in Dutch is Triomferende Maria geflankeerd door twee engelen, translates to Triumphant Mary flanked by two angels. This striking 19th-century memorial is not just an artistic masterpiece but also a symbol of historical significance and spiritual reverence.

The History of Beelden bij Grote Kerk

The story behind Beelden bij Grote Kerk is as compelling as the monument itself. In 1893, during a tumultuous period marked by a wave of criminal activity in Oss, Gerard Hoekman, a sergeant of the Royal Marechaussee brigade, was tragically murdered by the Bende van Oss, a notorious gang. In response to this tragic event, the local brigade was reinforced, and the perpetrators were apprehended and brought to justice.

In 1894, Arnoldus van de Laar, the parish priest and dean of the Great or Immaculate Conception Church, decided to commission this monument as a gesture of gratitude for the restored peace and in fulfillment of a silent promise. The monument was designed by Lambert Hezenmans, a restoration architect and painter from 's-Hertogenbosch, and executed by the Antwerp sculptor Jan Frans De Vriendt. The memorial was unveiled and consecrated in September 1894.

A Closer Look at the Monument

The Beelden bij Grote Kerk consists of three freestanding limestone statues mounted on two-meter-high hardstone pedestals, connected by a wrought-iron fence adorned with twisted bars and rosettes. The central figure is Mary, depicted triumphantly crushing a serpent with an apple in its mouth under her feet, symbolizing the victory over evil. This imagery is drawn from the Biblical story of the Fall of Man. Mary stands on a globe with a crescent moon, referencing the vision of a woman clothed with the sun and the moon under her feet from the Book of Revelation (Rev. 12:1).

The statue of Mary, standing at 2.10 meters, is a majestic figure with folded hands, exuding grace and sanctity. The pedestal supporting Mary is more elaborate than those of the accompanying angels, featuring Corinthian columns at the corners and an inscription that reads: I am the Immaculate Conception. I am the Guardian of this place.

The Angels: Guardians of the Monument

Flanking Mary are two angels, each standing 1.80 meters tall. These angels are depicted in long robes with large wings on their backs, each holding a shield with inscriptions. The angel on the left bears the words: O dear Mother, bless this place, while the one on the right holds a shield inscribed with: That you from now on belong to forever. The pedestals of the angels feature Gothic pointed arch recesses with inscriptions commemorating the events of 1893 and 1894, respectively: In memory of the disastrous year 1893 and In thanksgiving for the happy outcome in 1894.

Cultural and Historical Significance

In 2002, Beelden bij Grote Kerk was designated as a national monument and added to the Monument Register. This recognition underscores the cultural and historical value of the monument as a unique expression of socio-economic and spiritual developments. It serves as a poignant reminder of the end of the crime wave in Oss at the close of the 19th century. The monument is also significant for its association with Lambert Hezenmans, highlighting the high aesthetic quality of its design and its historical spatial relationship with the Great or Immaculate Conception Church, which is also listed as a protected monument.

The Beelden bij Grote Kerk is not only a testament to a pivotal moment in Oss's history but also a remarkable example of 19th-century religious art. Its typological and functional rarity adds to its importance, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in history, art, and spirituality.

Visiting Beelden bij Grote Kerk

When visiting Oss, a trip to the Beelden bij Grote Kerk is a journey into the past, offering a serene and contemplative experience. The monument's location next to the Great or Immaculate Conception Church makes it easily accessible for visitors. As you stand before this impressive work of art, take a moment to reflect on the history it represents and the artistic mastery it embodies.

In conclusion, Beelden bij Grote Kerk is more than just a monument; it is a symbol of triumph, gratitude, and faith. Its intricate design and profound historical significance make it a cherished landmark in Oss, inviting visitors to explore and appreciate the rich heritage of this picturesque Dutch town.