The Virgin adoring the Christ child 1824 - 1870

Vincenzo Della Bruna created this print, *The Virgin adoring the Christ child*, sometime in the 19th century. The print shows Mary kneeling in adoration of baby Jesus in a humble setting. Della Bruna lived in a time of significant social change and upheaval in Europe. The print reflects the prevalent religious sentiment of the 19th century and also reinforces traditional gender roles. Mary is depicted in a posture of humility and devotion, emphasizing her role as a mother. The image conveys a sense of idealized domesticity and maternal love, aligning with the era's emphasis on the nuclear family. However, this representation of Mary can also be interpreted as an act of resistance to secularization. Her quiet, internal strength resonates with the experiences of many women. As viewers, we are invited to contemplate the complexities of faith, motherhood, and the negotiation of personal and societal expectations.