Rechtvaardigen door hun geloof gered Possibly 1582 - 1654

Editor: This engraving, possibly dating from sometime between 1582 and 1654, is titled "Rechtvaardigen door hun geloof gered," attributed to Pieter van der Borcht the First. The busy composition depicting landscapes and figures gives me a sense of almost… frantic activity. What do you see when you look at this print? Curator: Indeed. Seeing this work, I’m drawn to consider the rise of print culture and its impact on the dissemination of religious and political ideas. This Northern Renaissance engraving highlights how easily information and opinions were able to be spread across regions at the time. Look at the layering of images: What statement is made by juxtaposing domesticity with images of agrarian life? Editor: That’s fascinating, how it links the individual with broader social and economic forces. So, is this about illustrating a specific theological viewpoint? Curator: In part, yes. The text at the top "Justus sua fide vivet", paired with the imagery, certainly suggests a theme of salvation through faith alone. However, look closer – note the mundane depiction of daily life interwoven within what you identify as frantic. Editor: So the intended viewer may have found the depiction to be quite everyday. What is striking about the print, from our vantage point in history, may have simply reflected their experience! Curator: Exactly! Considering how people engaged with such imagery helps us to unpack the politics of image making. Do you see how such prints might have functioned beyond religious instruction? Editor: Definitely. Reflecting on how artworks serve, and have served, a cultural and political role provides insight. I’ll never look at engravings the same way!