Reproductie van een prent van Christus die Maria kroont door Martin Schongauer before 1872

This print is a reproduction by Simonau & Toovey of Martin Schongauer's image of Christ Crowning Mary. Consider the moment this image depicts: an act of crowning that emphasizes a divinely ordained hierarchy. Mary kneels submissively, as Christ, with authority, places the crown upon her head. What does it mean for divine power to be visualized in such gendered terms? The angel looks on, bearing witness to a moment of apotheosis. This image speaks to the historical context of religious art, where representations of power and gender roles were deeply intertwined with cultural and religious ideologies. While seemingly traditional, the image complicates the role of women. Mary is being crowned, therefore being elevated, but her status is dependent on the power of Christ. It reflects and reinforces societal norms, while engaging with the viewer's personal faith.