Birth of the Virgin 1578

Cornelis Cort created this engraving, “Birth of the Virgin,” in the late 16th century. Consider the social and cultural context of the time, where women's roles were largely confined to domestic life and motherhood. In this piece, we witness not just a birth, but a communal, almost ritualistic event primarily attended by women. The image reinforces the significance of female support networks during childbirth. One woman pours water, another offers a tray, and a third holds the newborn, all acting in service of the mother and child. The male figure stands apart, a quiet observer, highlighting the separation of gendered spheres. The tender depiction of care challenges the often-stark representations of women during this period, carving out an intimate, female-centered narrative. The "Birth of the Virgin" is a powerful affirmation of female solidarity and the profound emotional experiences unique to women.