Maria leert het Christuskind lopen 1614

Raffaello Schiaminossi made this engraving, “Maria leert het Christuskind lopen,” which translates to “Mary teaching the Christ Child to walk,” around the turn of the seventeenth century. Here we see an intimate domestic scene, Mary is depicted teaching baby Jesus how to take his first steps, with Joseph watching over them. Made in Italy, this print reflects the strong influence of the Catholic Church. Religious imagery served not only as a source of personal devotion but also as a tool for religious instruction. Prints such as this one played a crucial role in disseminating religious ideas and values to a wider audience. Historians rely on an understanding of the period’s religious and social context to fully understand the print’s meaning and significance. Researching the history of religious orders and their patronage of the arts can provide additional context, as can the study of popular piety and devotional practices. Ultimately, understanding the social and institutional context is essential for a deeper understanding of the artwork’s significance.