Satire op het machtsmisbruik van de rooms-katholieke geestelijkheid 1527 - 1541

Bernard van Orley's "Satire op het machtsmisbruik van de rooms-katholieke geestelijkheid" (1527-1541) is a detailed pen and ink drawing, housed in the Rijksmuseum, that depicts a satirical critique of the Catholic Church's abuse of power. The artwork is a complex composition, overflowing with symbolic figures and objects. It depicts scenes of clergy engaging in various immoral activities, juxtaposed with religious imagery, creating a stark commentary on the perceived corruption within the Church. This drawing, reflecting the social and religious tensions of the 16th century, is a powerful example of the use of art as a means of social commentary.