Kaïn doodt Abel 1660

Frans Allen produced this engraving, titled "Cain Killing Abel," likely during the late 17th century in the Netherlands, depicting a story from the Book of Genesis. It's important to consider the cultural context in which it was made. During the Dutch Golden Age, there was a flourishing print culture, and biblical scenes were popular subjects. But, it’s also a time of great religious and political upheaval. We see depictions of morality tales. The narrative is about obedience to God, and it likely reflects contemporary concerns with social order and the consequences of disobedience. The print's visual codes also carry meaning. Cain is depicted as a somewhat sympathetic figure, head in hand, perhaps showing remorse. Abel is the victim lying on the ground. To fully understand its meaning, one could research the religious climate of the Netherlands in the late 17th century. The interpretation of biblical stories can reveal much about the anxieties and beliefs of a particular time and place.