Elia en de zoon van de weduwe van Zarfath 1525 - 1530

This woodcut print, now at the Rijksmuseum, depicts the biblical story of Elijah and the widow's son. Created by an anonymous artist, the image reflects the religious and social contexts of its time, offering a glimpse into the era's beliefs about faith, family, and divine intervention. In the main scene, we see a mother hunched over her lifeless son, while Elijah stands in a posture of prayer or supplication. The widow's vulnerability as a woman, a single parent, and a figure in poverty is central to the narrative. There is an emotional weight of desperation, grief, and perhaps, a glimmer of hope in the possibility of a miracle. The choice of this story underscores the Bible's focus on marginalized figures and the potential for redemption, shaping cultural attitudes toward gender, class, and social status. The woodcut captures a moment of profound emotional and spiritual tension. It serves as a reminder of the stories we tell ourselves about power, resilience, and the human capacity for both despair and faith.