Jona zit onder de wonderboom 1645 - 1740

This engraving by Christoffel van Sichem II, made sometime between the late 16th and mid-17th century, visualizes a scene from the Book of Jonah. We see Jonah sitting outside the city of Nineveh, awaiting its destruction after he reluctantly prophesied against it. The image reflects the religious culture of the Dutch Golden Age, a time of intense religious and political upheaval. The detailed depiction of Jonah and the city speaks to the importance of biblical literacy and moral teachings in Dutch society. The engraving was likely part of a series illustrating biblical stories for a wide audience. Examining the production and distribution of such prints can tell us about the role of religious imagery in shaping social values. By studying these visual artifacts, alongside theological texts and social histories, we gain insight into the complex interplay of religion, art, and society. The meaning of this image is contingent on its cultural and institutional context.