Visiting Prisoners 1635

Abraham Bosse created this print, "Visiting Prisoners," in France in the 17th century, using etching techniques. Bosse’s image offers a stark view into the social landscape of the period, particularly regarding charity, justice, and the human condition. The print is a commentary on the act of charity, specifically visiting those imprisoned, which was considered a Christian duty. But, it also subtly critiques the social structures that led to such widespread imprisonment. The contrast between the well-dressed visitors and the emaciated prisoners highlights the disparities in wealth and power. We can analyse Bosse’s work in terms of its historical context: the religious and social obligations of the time, the penal systems in place, and the broader social inequalities. Resources in archives and libraries can reveal more about these historical contexts, shedding light on the complex meanings embedded in this image.