Aanbidding door Maria, Jozef en engelen 1642 - 1650

Bartolomeo Biscaino created this piece, Aanbidding door Maria, Jozef en engelen, using engraving techniques during the 17th century. The artwork illustrates the adoration of baby Jesus by Mary, Joseph, and angels. Biscaino was working in a society deeply shaped by religious beliefs and social hierarchies. This piece reflects a common theme in religious art, yet it invites us to consider how power dynamics are represented. How do the kneeling figures of Mary and Joseph convey humility and reverence? What does it mean to depict the divine entering the world in such a humble state? The angels above bear a banner which translates to ‘Glory to God in the Highest’. Consider the emotional resonance of the scene; the quiet wonder, and the intimacy of the Holy Family. The tender depiction of the infant Jesus and the adoring gaze of his parents offer a powerful message of hope and redemption. The setting is in what looks like a stable, reminding us that anyone from any background can experience powerful emotion.