Maria met kind en knielende Antonius van Padua 1620 - 1686

This is Gilles Rousselet’s monochrome print, made some time between 1614 and 1686. We see Mary holding the infant Jesus, while Saint Anthony of Padua kneels in reverence. Notice the formal structure which is built upon a series of interacting lines and tonal contrasts. Mary and Jesus are radiant, positioned in the upper-left quadrant, while Saint Anthony occupies the lower-right. This creates a diagonal tension that divides and animates the composition. The artist employs an interplay of light and shadow to guide the viewer’s eye through the scene; from the divine light emanating from Mary, to the shadows that define Saint Anthony's contemplative posture. The composition invites us to consider how the structural elements evoke a sense of divine encounter. The artist skillfully balances formal elements to construct a semiotic field, encouraging a dynamic interpretation. This piece invites us to appreciate the ongoing dialogue between artistic representation and spiritual contemplation.