De zieken bij de vijver van Bethesda 1630 - 1684

Domenico Maria Canuti created this sketch, "The Sick at the Pool of Bethesda", using pen and brown ink with white gouache, likely in the latter half of the 17th century. Canuti, working in Bologna, situates us in a moment of biblical narrative, but he does so with the sensibilities of his time. The sketch captures the tense interplay between faith, healing, and the stark realities of the human body marked by suffering. The figures are rendered with an attention to their physicality, emphasizing their vulnerability. The use of light and shadow creates a dramatic effect, highlighting the emotional weight of the scene. At the time, the Catholic Church played a central role in shaping cultural and artistic production. Representations of biblical stories often served to reinforce religious doctrine and moral values. However, Canuti also subtly explores the lived experiences of the marginalized and afflicted, offering a glimpse into their hopes and struggles within a society deeply structured by religious beliefs. Through his art, Canuti invites us to consider the complexities of faith, compassion, and human resilience in the face of adversity.