Antonius van Padua predikt tot de vissen 1735

Jacques Philippe Le Bas created this print titled "Antonius van Padua preaching to the fish" sometime in the 18th century. Le Bas was a product of the Enlightenment, a period where reason and skepticism challenged traditional beliefs. This image depicts Saint Anthony of Padua, known for his ability to connect with all beings, even the aquatic. The scene reflects a world where the natural and the divine intersect, a narrative that deviates from strictly rational views gaining prominence at the time. Look at the attentive faces of the crowd gathered by the shore, and then notice the fish as they listen intently to the saint, creating a visual representation of harmony between humanity and nature. It invites us to reflect on our relationships with the environment and the stories we tell about those connections. It's a gentle reminder of the simple yet profound ways we find meaning in the world around us.