Jael slaying Sisera 1705 - 1762

This print, by Johann Georg Bergmüller, depicts Jael slaying Sisera. It’s a gruesome biblical scene rendered in fine lines. Prints like this circulated widely in 18th-century Europe, spreading both religious narratives and artistic styles. This one reflects the influence of both Italian and German art. Consider the politics of imagery at the time. Europe was in the throes of religious conflict. Visual propaganda, such as this print, played a crucial role in shaping public opinion. Jael, a woman, is celebrated here for her violent act against an enemy of Israel. We have to ask, what does this say about the social conditions that shaped the production of this piece? To fully understand this print, we delve into the history of religious imagery, the politics of the 18th century, and the institutions that supported artists like Bergmüller. Only then can we grasp its full meaning as a cultural artifact.