Judaskus en arrestatie van Christus 1632

Nicolaes de Bruyn made this print of the Kiss of Judas and the Arrest of Christ with engraving. The image depicts the moment when Judas identifies Jesus to the authorities by kissing him, leading to Jesus's arrest. The print was made in the Netherlands during a period of religious and political upheaval. The Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule was in full swing, and religious tensions between Catholics and Protestants were high. De Bruyn's print reflects these tensions by depicting Jesus as a figure of piety and innocence, while the authorities are shown as menacing and corrupt. The presence of torches and weapons underscores the violence and injustice of the scene. Prints like these played a crucial role in shaping public opinion during the Reformation and Counter-Reformation. They were often used as propaganda to promote specific religious or political agendas. Art historians study such images alongside pamphlets, sermons, and other historical sources to gain a deeper understanding of the social and cultural context in which they were made.