Steniging van de ouderlingen 1645 - 1646

"Steniging van de ouderlingen" (Stoning of the Parents) is a 17th-century etching by Dutch artist Christoffel van (II) Sichem, currently housed in the Rijksmuseum. The artwork depicts a biblical scene where a man is being stoned to death by a group of people, a graphic portrayal of violence as described in the Book of Exodus. Sichem, known for his mastery of etching, utilizes fine lines and detailed shading to create a sense of depth and realism. The composition is dynamic, with the figures arranged in a chaotic yet balanced manner, highlighting the brutality of the act. This powerful depiction of the stoning of the parents in the Old Testament captures the dark side of biblical narrative and serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobeying God.