Christ Rebukes the Scribes and Pharisees c. 1576 - 1580

Léonard Gaultier’s engraving presents a scene from the Gospel of Matthew, likely made in France around the turn of the 17th century. At its center, Christ confronts the Scribes and Pharisees, figures of religious authority in the Jewish community. The image operates on multiple levels. We see Christ challenging the established religious order. Consider too, that Gaultier was working in a time of intense religious conflict in Europe, where the Catholic Church faced challenges from Protestant reformers. The clothing of the figures in the foreground is particularly interesting. The Scribes and Pharisees are conspicuously overdressed. Their garments signify their status and wealth, something which Christ himself challenged. To understand this print more fully, we can consult historical texts and theological commentaries. These resources can offer insights into the complex social and religious dynamics of the time and the enduring power of art to engage with these issues.