The Virgin Teaching St. John 1766

John Hamilton Mortimer created this print called "The Virgin Teaching St. John" in the late 18th century. During this period, artists navigated the expectations of traditional religious subjects while also beginning to explore more personal and expressive styles. Here, the Virgin Mary is depicted not in a distant, divine light, but as an approachable figure, teaching a young St. John. The intimacy and humanization of religious figures reflect a shift towards more personal and emotional interpretations of faith. It invites viewers to contemplate the humanity of these figures and to find a more personal connection to religious narratives. The artwork subtly challenges the traditional, often rigid, portrayals of women in religious art by presenting Mary as an active teacher and nurturing mother. This print fosters a sense of familiarity, inviting viewers to engage with the subjects on a human level.