Geistlicher Kauffhandel. Dess Herren Wort bleibt inn Ewigkeit 1619

This anonymous print, "Geistlicher Kauffhandel. Dess Herren Wort bleibt inn Ewigkeit," likely produced in the 16th or 17th century, uses engraving to explore the religious and political turmoil of the Reformation. Divided into visual and textual fields, the print contrasts the views of Martin Luther, the Pope, and John Calvin. The left side illustrates a conflict between these figures within a church, while the right depicts a peaceful, pastoral scene. It uses the dispute between them to ask, 'Who truly speaks for God?' The imagery and text suggest the Reformation was not just a theological debate but also a struggle for religious and political power. The emotional weight of this piece lies in its direct engagement with the anxieties of a society undergoing massive religious upheaval, inviting viewers to reflect on their own beliefs and allegiances. The print challenges traditional religious authority, fostering a dialogue about faith, interpretation, and individual conscience.