Rare 17th-Century Manuscript by Isabella de Spiritu Sancto on Display at Amsterdam's Embassy of the Free Mind
The Embassy of the Free Mind in Amsterdam is currently featuring a unique historical manuscript: Recreationen by Isabella de Spiritu Sancto. This significant 17th-century work offers a rare glimpse into profound spiritual experiences and artistic expression. Visitors have a limited opportunity to view this special piece.
Isabella de Spiritu Sancto, known in life as Charlotta de Urquina (1606-1675), served as prioress and founder of a Carmelite convent in Cologne. Her manuscript, Recreationen, is a deeply personal account documenting a powerful vision of the Holy Trinity that she experienced over several months.
Beyond her mystical insights, Isabella was also a skilled artist. She crafted the distinct "Books of the Heart," which feature emblems where a human heart is given eyes, hands, and feet. These intricate illustrations sometimes depict the heart looking through an inverted telescope, symbolizing an inward reflection of creation and the soul's connection with the divine.
The version of Recreationen now exhibited in the Reading Room is a vibrant, colorful display on parchment, originally created for Count Carolus von Paar. This particular manuscript is rarely seen publicly as it is part of the BPH Collection, typically housed at the Allard Pierson special collections archive at the University of Amsterdam. This special display is available for viewing until the end of November, as highlighted by Natalie Koch, a curator at the Bibliotheca Philosophica Hermetica.
This exhibition offers a unique chance for those interested in historical manuscripts, mysticism, and art to connect with a remarkable piece of cultural heritage in Amsterdam. For more insights into cultural events and unique collections like this one, explore Musemap (musemap.art) or discover other museums in Amsterdam and nearby exhibitions.
