Afdaling in het Voorgeborchte c. 1608 - 1639

"Afdaling in het Voorgeborchte" is a 17th-century etching by Flemish artist Philippe van Mallery. The artwork depicts the Descent into Limbo, a pivotal moment in Christian tradition where Jesus, after his crucifixion, descends into the underworld to free the souls of the righteous. Van Mallery's etching presents a dramatic scene with Christ triumphantly holding a banner and reaching out to the souls trapped in Limbo. The detailed depiction of the scene and the use of light and shadow creates a powerful visual experience, reflecting the religious fervor of the period.