St. John Baptist 1632 - 1685

This is Conrad Lauwers' engraving, St. John Baptist, made in the 17th century. During this time, the Catholic Church played a central role in society, often using art to convey religious teachings. Here, John the Baptist stands with a lamb at his feet, referencing his role in the Christian faith. The classical rendering of the saint might evoke traditional representations, but also develops alternative narratives about identity through the placement and vulnerability of the lamb. Lauwers was part of a world which still used enslaved people of African descent in many cities and colonies. To see the lamb–often symbolic of innocence–here, in light of that history, should make us pause. Engravings like this one served as tools for education, but also enforced prevailing views of religion and society. This work shapes societal views and invites us to reflect on historical context and personal faith.