Kind met lam (mogelijk Johannes de Doper) 1620 - 1664

This is Stefano della Bella’s small etching, “Child with Lamb (possibly John the Baptist).” Della Bella, who lived from 1610 to 1664, created this delicate work to be reproduced and distributed, a common practice in his time. Consider the duality present. Is it a simple, pastoral scene of innocence? Or is the artist attempting to convey more complex religious or philosophical themes? The lamb, a symbol often associated with sacrifice, contrasts with the child's innocence. This contrast invites reflection on themes of childhood, sacrifice, and the weight of religious symbolism in 17th-century Europe. Della Bella seems to be challenging traditional representations, inviting viewers to reconsider familiar narratives through a fresh, humanistic lens. Perhaps he means to reveal the vulnerability inherent in religious iconography, reminding us of the emotional and personal dimensions of faith.