H. Benedictus als kluizenaar ontvangt geschenken van landlieden 1585 - 1692

This drawing of Saint Benedict as a hermit receiving gifts from country folk was made by an anonymous artist, date unknown. The drawing depicts Benedict as a holy man, set apart from the material world yet reliant on the gifts of common laborers. The gifts underscore the relationship between the spiritual and the earthly. Benedict, while seeking transcendence, is still embedded in a network of reciprocity and social exchange. The drawing thus points to Benedict’s dependence on the working class for sustenance, even in his pursuit of solitude. Benedict is sustained by those he has set himself apart from. The drawing shows the gendered division of labor that was typical of the time. The men appear to be more involved in physical labor, while women are depicted in nurturing roles, often with children. The overall composition reflects a hierarchical society, with Benedict at the top as the spiritual guide, followed by the givers who sustain him.