Oprichting van de koperen slang 1645 - 1646

Editor: So, this is Christoffel van Sichem the Younger's "The Raising of the Bronze Serpent," created around 1645 or 1646. It's an ink drawing and engraving, giving it this striking, almost stark quality. What do you make of the relationship between the image and the broader social and political context? Curator: It’s interesting you pick up on that starkness. I think that comes from the engraving technique, but also speaks to the raw desperation inherent in the biblical narrative itself. The image depicts a moment of crisis and deliverance for the Israelites, but seen through the lens of the 17th century. The plague of snakes, the erected bronze serpent, the divine intervention… consider the role of religion in solidifying social hierarchies and power structures during that era. Editor: It does feel very much like a power play on multiple levels. How does the idea of repentance play into that dynamic? Curator: Precisely. The act of looking at the bronze serpent is an act of repentance, of acknowledging divine authority. But isn't it also a reinforcement of existing social norms? Think about who controls the narrative, who interprets the divine will. Does everyone in the camp benefit equally from this “deliverance,” or does it serve to further marginalize certain groups? Look at the figures: are they differentiated or stylized? What conclusions could you make about social class? Editor: I never considered how salvation could have been socially and culturally impacted by how people saw it at the time! It makes you consider those affected in a whole new light. Curator: Exactly. Art allows us to have those conversations! The composition and dramatic contrasts contribute to a larger cultural understanding. It reminds us that even acts of faith and salvation are deeply embedded in a network of power and social relations.