Antiochus Epifanes rooft de tempel van Jeruzalem leeg 1585

This engraving by Wierix, created between 1550 and 1620, depicts Antiochus Epifanes looting the temple of Jerusalem. It’s important to consider the historical context in which Wierix was working. During the 16th and 17th centuries, Europe was wracked by religious conflict, and engravings like this were often used as propaganda. This image clearly sides against Antiochus, portraying him as a ruthless oppressor of the Jewish people. It is important to note how the artist uses visual cues to create a sense of ‘otherness’ for Antiochus and his army. The contrast between the soldiers' violence and the vulnerability of the fallen figures evokes a strong emotional response, inviting viewers to empathize with the plight of those being persecuted. It's a potent reminder of how art can be used to shape perceptions and reinforce existing biases, and how crucial it is to critically examine the messages that these works convey.