Heilige Stefanus gestenigd 1697

This small print depicts the stoning of Saint Stephen, made by an anonymous artist. It visualizes a key moment of early Christian history, filled with the tension between faith and persecution. Stephen, a figure of steadfast belief, is surrounded by those who condemn him, their arms raised, ready to strike. The artist captures a raw emotionality in Stephen's upward gaze, a plea for understanding in the face of brutal injustice. The print invites us to reflect on themes of martyrdom, religious conflict, and the courage to stand by one's convictions, even when confronted with mortal danger. The scene invites reflection on the intersections of religious identity and societal power. It reminds us of the historical struggles faced by marginalized communities and the ongoing relevance of these narratives in our contemporary world.