Heilige Familie bij een bron 1633 - 1700

Jean Pesne created this engraving, Heilige Familie bij een bron, which translates to The Holy Family at a Fountain, in the 17th century. During the 1600s, France was undergoing significant social and political changes, with the rise of absolutism under Louis XIV and religious tensions between Catholics and Protestants. Pesne, as a Protestant artist in a predominantly Catholic country, had to navigate the complexities of religious and political life. This engraving reflects a desire to reconcile classical artistic ideals with religious subject matter. Here, the Virgin Mary is depicted in a classical pose, reminiscent of ancient sculptures, while the cherubic angels and serene landscape evoke a sense of divine harmony. The composition is idealized, reflecting the era's emphasis on order and reason. Look at the way Pesne blends religious sentiment with classical aesthetics, creating a space where faith and beauty converge. Notice the emotional undercurrent; the tenderness of Mary, the protective gaze of Joseph. This work invites us to consider the intersection of personal faith, artistic expression, and cultural identity in a time of great social change.