Saint Anthony 

Israhel van Meckenem created this engraving of Saint Anthony during a period of immense social and religious change. As the bubonic plague ravaged Europe, the figure of Saint Anthony, protector against disease and demonic forces, gained prominence. Here, Saint Anthony stands with a stoic gaze, his presence amplified by the demons cowering beneath him. These demons, grotesque and tormented, embody the fears and anxieties of a society grappling with disease and uncertainty. Israhel van Meckenem challenges traditional representations by portraying Saint Anthony not as a remote, divine figure, but as a symbol of resilience amidst societal despair. The engraving reflects the emotional intensity of a world in crisis, where faith and fear were intertwined. It serves as a reminder of humanity's enduring struggle against adversity.