Maria met Christus en Johannes de Doper 1607 - 1637

Theodoor Rombouts created this engraving, Maria met Christus en Johannes de Doper, in the 17th century, a time when the Catholic Church significantly influenced artistic production. Here, we see Mary depicted as a nurturing mother, holding the infant Christ. This tender portrayal is contrasted by the presence of John the Baptist, who offers Christ a cross, symbolizing his future sacrifice. This inclusion subtly introduces themes of suffering and redemption into the otherwise intimate scene. Consider the implications of these images during the Counter-Reformation, when the Church sought to reaffirm its doctrines. Rombouts presents a domesticated vision of holiness, making the divine accessible. These images would have offered solace and reinforced religious teachings, illustrating how the personal and the political were deeply intertwined during this period.