A Man Leading a Blind Friar c. 17th century

Jusepe de Ribera made this drawing of a man leading a blind friar with pen and brown ink wash on paper. Working in 17th-century Naples, then under Spanish rule, Ribera explored religious and philosophical themes, often with a stark realism. This drawing likely reflects the period’s deep social and religious tensions. The Counter-Reformation was in full swing, and the Catholic Church emphasized the importance of charity and humility. Friars, members of mendicant orders, lived amongst the poor, relying on alms. The image of a blind friar being led could symbolize the Church's dependence on the laity, or perhaps a commentary on spiritual guidance. It could also speak to broader social concerns about poverty, disability, and the roles of different classes within society. Historians use various sources, like religious texts, social records, and other artworks from the time, to understand the complex meanings embedded in such images. Art becomes a window into the social and institutional dynamics of its time, offering insights into the values, anxieties, and power structures that shaped its creation.