Koning Manasse in de gevangenis 1691 - 1733

Louis Surugue created this print, "King Manasseh in Prison," during a period marked by religious and political tensions in Europe. The print depicts King Manasseh of Judah in a prison cell, reflecting on his sins, surrounded by other prisoners in various states of distress. The chains that bind the figures together here are both literal and metaphorical, representing not only physical captivity, but also the constraints of human behavior and societal expectations. The raw emotionality of the scene—the grief, despair, and introspection—invites us to confront our own vulnerabilities and moral struggles. Surugue uses the biblical narrative to explore themes of power, repentance, and divine forgiveness. Rather than glorifying royalty, Surugue humanizes Manasseh, portraying him in a moment of deep personal crisis. In this context, the print serves as a commentary on leadership, accountability, and the universal need for redemption. The artwork fosters an emotional connection, prompting questions about justice, mercy, and the possibility of change.