Miraculous Draught of Fishes, from The Passion of Christ, plate 29 1664

Grégoire Huret created this engraving, Miraculous Draught of Fishes, from The Passion of Christ, in the 17th century, during a time when religious art served as a powerful tool for both spiritual instruction and political influence. Huret’s image depicts a biblical scene where Jesus provides an abundant catch of fish to his disciples, yet the image is also deeply embedded in the social dynamics of its time. Consider the intense, almost theatrical expressions on the faces of the fishermen; the dramatic lighting and dynamic composition serve to evoke a sense of awe and submission to divine power, reinforcing the Church's authority. In the context of 17th-century France, where religious and political power were closely intertwined, art was often used to convey messages of obedience and faith. While seemingly a straightforward depiction of a biblical miracle, this engraving also speaks to broader issues of power, belief, and social control. Huret’s work invites us to reflect on how religious narratives intersect with the socio-political landscape.