Fides (Geloof) en Charitas (Liefde) 1693

'Fides (Geloof) en Charitas (Liefde)' is an engraving by Samuel Bottschild made in the Netherlands sometime between 1656 and 1706. Here we see faith and love allegorically represented in a baroque style, a period that often used dramatic, exaggerated motion and clear detail to produce drama, exuberance, and grandeur in art. On the left, 'Fides', or faith, is depicted as a woman breastfeeding one child while another looks on. Motherhood in art is frequently employed as a symbol of nurture and care. Meanwhile, 'Charitas', or love, is represented on the right, alongside a figure holding a cross. The figures are enveloped by clouds, perhaps alluding to the ethereal or divine nature of these concepts. The religious context of the Dutch Golden Age, marked by theological debates and the rise of Protestantism, undoubtedly influenced the artwork. Bottschild uses familiar representations to explore the complex relationship between faith, love, and charity. The emotionality of this piece invites viewers to reflect on these values, both then and now.