Naamgeving van Johannes de Doper 1564

This engraving, “Naamgeving van Johannes de Doper,” or “The Naming of John the Baptist,” was created by Philips Galle, sometime between 1537 and 1612. It depicts a biblical scene, but more broadly, it invites us to consider the social roles assigned to people based on gender and age within 16th-century European society. Notice how the women are actively caring for the newborn child, embodying the nurturing roles expected of them. Meanwhile, the older man on the left, presumably the father, is seated and writing the child's name, symbolizing male authority and the power of naming. The act of naming is not simply a practical matter; it's deeply connected to identity, legacy, and the perpetuation of patriarchal structures. It's also worth noting that the women are adorned in elaborate clothing and jewelry, indicative of status and wealth. Ultimately, this engraving invites us to consider the ways in which social expectations shape our identities and experiences, even within intimate, familial settings.