Christus wast de voeten van zijn discipelen 1573

Philips Galle created this engraving, "Christ Washing the Feet of His Disciples," in the late 16th century. It depicts a moment of profound humility and service, themes often explored during the Counter-Reformation. Galle was based in Antwerp, a city deeply affected by the religious and political upheavals of the time. The act of foot washing, rendered here with meticulous detail, symbolizes Christ's selfless love. Galle's choice to depict this scene reflects the era’s emphasis on personal piety and the imitation of Christ, core tenets promoted by the Catholic Church in response to Protestant challenges. The print would have circulated widely, serving as a tool for religious instruction. Understanding Galle's work requires exploring the visual culture of 16th-century Antwerp, with its complex interplay of religious, economic, and political forces. Art historians examine prints like this to understand the circulation of ideas, the role of religious imagery in shaping belief, and the social functions of art in early modern Europe.