Leven van Christus 1869 - 1882

This lithograph entitled "Leven van Christus" or "Life of Christ" was made by Gerhardus Philippus Zalsman. Although undated, Zalsman was working during a period in the Netherlands when religious imagery, particularly illustrations of biblical stories, were common in homes and religious institutions. These small images create meaning through their visual codes, cultural references, and historical associations, depicting scenes from the life of Jesus Christ. The format, with multiple scenes on one page, suggests it was intended for educational or devotional use. Given the rise of print culture and increased literacy in the 19th century, this type of artwork would have been accessible to a broad audience, serving as a visual aid for religious instruction. The institutional history of religious education in the Netherlands provides context for understanding the artwork’s purpose and audience. To understand this artwork better, it helps to examine the historical context of religious practice and education in the Netherlands during Zalsman’s time. Research into the distribution and reception of similar religious prints can shed light on its cultural impact. Understanding art requires close attention to its social and institutional context.