De Heilige Familie 1765 - 1770

Johann Esaias Nilson created this print, "De Heilige Familie," around the mid-18th century. During this time, art often served to reinforce social hierarchies and religious beliefs. Nilson, working within this context, presents a scene laden with symbolism, yet also revealing of the era’s ideals. The print depicts the Holy Family, but it's framed within an elaborate architectural setting. This elevation of the family to the divine reflects the premium placed on family and motherhood. We can view the male figure at the bottom in his robes as a connection between the divine and the earthly. This image invites contemplation on the intersection of faith, family, and societal structure. Nilson's work encourages us to consider how religious narratives and societal expectations were intertwined, shaping individual and collective identities. The print offers a glimpse into the ways in which the Holy Family was presented as a model for families in the 18th century, reinforcing particular gender roles and social values.