Boetepredikers en de IHS-rage op gebouwen

A significant cultural and religious trend emerged in the mid-15th century, marked by the widespread adoption of the IHS monogram—representing 'Iesus Hominum Salvator'—on buildings and everyday objects across Europe. This practice was championed by penitential preachers, notably Bernardinus of Siena, whose sermons inspired public acts of repentance, including the removal of party blazon in favor of Jesus' name. The study highlights the monogram's prevalence on structures like town halls (e.g., Deventer, Zwolle) and residential buildings (e.g., Munster), as well as its appearance on diverse items such as furniture, ceramics, and contracts. The research underscores a broader medieval preoccupation with integrating religious symbolism into daily life, reflecting both piety and the desire for divine protection. Methodologically, the study relies on historical documentation, architectural evidence, and textual analysis to trace the monogram's dissemination through the influence of Franciscan and Jesuit preachers.

De Vries, D. J. (2004). Boetepredikers en de IHS-rage op gebouwen. Bulletin KNOB, Bulletin KNOB 103 (2004) 3. https://doi.org/10.7480/KNOB.103.2004.3.238