Sheltering Strangers 1581 - 1582

Editor: So, this is "Sheltering Strangers" by Adriaen Collaert, created sometime between 1560 and 1618. It looks like it's an engraving. The contrast between the chaotic crowd outside and the calm interior scene is striking. What can you tell me about its context? Curator: Collaert was part of a vibrant printmaking scene in Antwerp. These images weren't just decorative; they played a vital role in disseminating moral and religious ideas. Consider how the act of sheltering strangers would be perceived during a time of frequent displacement and religious conflict. Editor: So, it's not just about charity, but also about the social implications? Curator: Exactly. The print engages with the viewer's own social responsibilities and invites reflection on the role of hospitality in a turbulent world. Editor: That adds a whole new dimension to understanding the piece. Thanks! Curator: Indeed. Looking closely, we can see how art carries cultural and political weight.