Kaïn doodt Abel, omringd door uiteenlopende voorstellingen 1784

This print, ‘Cain Killing Abel, Surrounded by Various Depictions’, was made by Johann David Schleuen around the mid-18th century. At this time, Europe was in the throes of the Enlightenment. The focus on reason and individualism was gaining prominence, and there was a growing interest in understanding human nature and morality. Schleuen’s image is filled with violence, portraying the biblical story of Cain and Abel not as a singular moment, but a series of interconnected scenes that encompass primal rage, death, and the aftermath of fratricide. The story illustrates questions of jealousy, sacrifice, and divine favor. The artist captures the raw emotion of Cain's murderous act, his face contorted with anger as he strikes down his brother, and surrounds it with allegorical illustrations. But what does it mean to frame a story of such violence within a visually complex tableau? Schleuen challenges us to see the full implications of Cain's act and how the experience of primal violence has far-reaching impact. This print prompts us to reflect on our own capacity for envy and aggression, and how these emotions can lead to destruction and the loss of innocence.