Dimensions: height 363 mm, width 242 mm
Copyright: Rijks Museum: Open Domain
Jacobus Baptist created this print, titled *The raising of Lazarus and the parable of the lost sheep*, at the turn of the 18th century. The Dutch Republic, with its global trade networks, was a place of religious tolerance and intellectual exchange, providing a fertile ground for art that explored moral and spiritual themes. Baptist’s print visualizes familiar biblical stories through a lens that reflects the period's emphasis on personal piety and moral instruction. The two scenes, presented side by side, invite viewers to contemplate themes of redemption and divine mercy. Lazarus emerging from his tomb and the shepherd carrying the lost sheep convey hope and renewal, as well as social responsibility. The emotional engagement encouraged by the artist underscores the importance of these narratives. It invites a personal connection that remains powerful today. The juxtaposition of these two scenes suggests that no one is beyond redemption, reinforcing a message of hope and empathy that speaks to the human condition.
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