Afscheid van David en Jonathan 1530 - 1533

This woodcut, titled 'Afscheid van David en Jonathan', or 'The Farewell of David and Jonathan', was made by an anonymous artist. The print illustrates a scene from the Old Testament, a popular subject for artists across Europe at the time. Prints like this circulated widely, especially in the Netherlands. They reflect the religious and social values of the time. Biblical stories weren't just religious lessons, but also moral and political commentary. The story of David and Jonathan, with its themes of loyalty and sacrifice, would have resonated with a society often disrupted by war and religious conflict. Understanding this image requires looking at its historical context, its relationship to religious beliefs, and the role of printmaking in spreading ideas. We can consult period literature, religious texts, and the history of printmaking to learn more about the complex cultural forces that shaped this artwork.