Waarschuwing, pagina 1 1641

This is "Waarschuwing, pagina 1," made by Crispijn van de Passe the Younger around the 17th century. It is an etching, a warning against adultery, made during a time of strict social and religious norms in the Netherlands. The print critiques the era's perceived moral decay. In that time, marriage was regarded as a sacred institution, and transgressions were seen as threats to the social order. The text strongly condemns adultery, linking it to spiritual blindness and a path to death, rather than life. The print reflects a society grappling with questions of sin, punishment, and redemption, and uses religious doctrine to address social anxieties. The emotional weight of the piece comes from its intense moral stance, intended to provoke introspection and adherence to religious law. The artwork reinforces traditional views, presenting adultery as a grave sin with severe consequences, which shows the social norms of that time. The artwork serves as a window into the religious and moral beliefs of the 17th century. It highlights the role of art in shaping and enforcing societal values, especially concerning marriage and sexuality.