Studie van Christus met twee figuren 1817 - 1891

Joseph Meganck made this study of Christ with two figures as a print. Meganck was part of a 19th-century artistic and intellectual movement in Belgium that sought inspiration in earlier artistic traditions. This etching revives the religious subjects of the old masters. But unlike earlier artists who sought royal patronage, Meganck and his contemporaries depended on support from the church and wealthy individuals to display art in public exhibitions. The image shows how religious imagery in Belgium served the social function of preserving traditional values. As art historians, we need to look into the institutional histories of museums, galleries, and religious organisations, as well as the social conditions that shape artistic production. These are essential to understanding the public role and political meaning of art.