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The Baptism of the King of Congo (engraving)
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The Baptism of the King of Congo (engraving)
TRV230471 The Baptism of the King of Congo (engraving) by Benard, Robert (fl.1734); Private Collection; (add.info.: The ruler of the Congo Nzinga Nkuwu (manikongo) was baptised in 1491 by Portuguese missionaries and took the name King Joao I. His wife Queen Nzinga a Nlaza, and heir Nzinga Mbemba (Afonso) were also baptised.
Plate was first published in Abrege de L Histoire Generale des Voyages by Jean-Francois de la Harpe, 1780. ); eTravellers Club; French, out of copyright
Media ID 22952080
© Travellers Club / Bridgeman Images
Angola Baptising Baptizing Christening Colonisation Colony Conversion Converted John Kongo Mission Missionaries Missionary Naming Portuguese
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The Baptism of the King of Congo
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a captivating engraving that captures a significant moment in history. Created by Robert Benard, this print showcases the baptism of Nzinga Nkuwu, the ruler of Congo, in 1491. The Portuguese missionaries played a crucial role in this event as they baptized him and bestowed upon him the name King Joao I. In this artwork, we see King Joao I kneeling before European priests who are performing the sacred ceremony. Surrounding them is a diverse crowd representing both African and European cultures. This image symbolizes not only religious conversion but also colonization and its impact on Africa. The inclusion of Queen Nzinga a Nlaza and their heir, Nzinga Mbemba (Afonso), being baptized alongside the king highlights the influence Christianity had on Congolese royalty during this period. This engraving was first published in "Abrege de L Histoire Generale des Voyages" by Jean-Francois de la Harpe in 1780. It serves as an important historical document depicting an era when religion played a pivotal role in shaping political alliances and cultural transformations. "The Baptism of the King of Congo" offers viewers a glimpse into an extraordinary moment where tradition met with foreign influences. It reminds us to reflect on how religion can shape societies and bridge gaps between different civilizations throughout history.
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