Abraham Welcoming the Three Angels c. 1525 - 1535

Peter Flötner created this small plaque depicting "Abraham Welcoming the Three Angels" sometime between 1535 and 1545. As an artist working during the Reformation, Flötner navigated a shifting landscape of religious and cultural values. This piece, reflecting the biblical story of Abraham's hospitality to three strangers who reveal themselves as divine messengers, is more than just a religious scene. It's about the intersection of faith, duty, and societal expectations. Abraham, an old, weary traveler, extends kindness without knowing who these strangers are, embodying a virtue of selfless generosity. Consider how the concept of welcoming strangers speaks to the idea of empathy, particularly poignant in a time of social and religious upheaval. Hospitality becomes a powerful act, challenging us to reflect on our own responses to those who are different or in need. Flötner encourages us to look beyond the surface and recognize the potential for grace in every encounter.