Zie hier in dit tafreel hoe 't lot van Jozef toont, / Hoe soms de onschuld lijdt, maar God haar ook betoont 1819 - 1840

Alexander Cranendoncq created this print, “Zie hier in dit tafreel hoe 't lot van Jozef toont,” which translates to “See here in this scene how the fate of Joseph unfolds,” sometime between 1799 and 1869. The series of images depicts the story of Joseph from the Book of Genesis. These biblical narratives were often used to reinforce societal norms and power structures. In this context, Joseph's story, marked by suffering and eventual triumph, underscores themes of perseverance and divine justice. It’s important to consider how such narratives might have been used to both inspire and control populations, particularly those facing hardship. How does the concept of ‘innocence’ being rewarded by a higher power resonate differently depending on one's social position or access to justice? The print’s emotional core lies in its depiction of human resilience. It asks us to consider the intersections of faith, identity, and social mobility, reflecting the complex ways in which individuals navigate their place within society.