Christus zegent de kinderen before 1700

"Christus zegent de kinderen" (Christ Blesses the Children) is a 17th-century etching by the Flemish artist Jan van Orley. The print depicts the biblical scene where Jesus welcomes children to come to him, as described in the Gospel of Mark. Van Orley masterfully renders the scene with detailed figures and architectural elements, illustrating the tenderness of Christ as he blesses the children brought to him. This piece is a prime example of the artist's skill in depicting religious narratives with a sense of realism and emotion. The composition is dynamic, drawing the viewer's eye to the central figure of Christ, who is surrounded by a crowd of people, while the architectural elements add depth and context to the scene. This etching is a valuable example of the artist’s work in portraying the divine and the everyday, highlighting the importance of faith and compassion.