Madonna met Kind 1607 - 1655

Cornelis Schut created this small engraving, Madonna met Kind, in the 17th century. Schut, a Flemish artist working in the Baroque style, lived in a society deeply shaped by religious and political upheaval. This intimate portrayal of motherhood transcends the purely religious. The softness of the lines and the tenderness in Mary's gaze invite us to reflect on the universal experiences of maternal love and protection. Yet, within this tenderness, we must also acknowledge the historical context. Mary, as a figure, has often been idealized and placed on a pedestal, a representation of purity and submission. While such imagery can offer solace, it also reinforces limiting expectations of women. Schut’s Madonna is not merely an icon; she is a woman, holding her child, her expression a blend of love, concern, and perhaps a hint of the burdens she knows he will face. This artwork invites us to see beyond the traditional narrative and connect with the emotional and human dimensions of motherhood.