Man wijzend naar een groot crucifix beeld 1797

This print of a crucifix, made by Bernard Eugène Antoine Rottiers, presents us with a fascinating intersection of faith and social upheaval. The crucifix, a symbol of profound religious significance, is depicted with a man pointing towards it, almost as if urging the viewer to take notice. This work was produced during a period of considerable turbulence. The Latin text at the base of the image references the destruction of religious artifacts and antiquities by iconoclasts in the late 18th Century. The image subtly critiques the institutions of art and religion in a time of social change. It challenges us to think about the role of art in society, particularly when traditional structures are under threat. Understanding this print requires historical investigation, examining the social conditions of the time, and delving into the history of religious institutions. Only then can we fully appreciate the complex interplay of faith, society, and artistic expression that Rottiers has captured here.