The Encounter on the Way to Emmaus 1595

Franz Fallenter created this stained glass panel depicting "The Encounter on the Way to Emmaus" around the year 1600. It illustrates the biblical story of Jesus appearing to two disciples after his resurrection, but the image is deeply rooted in the social and political context of its time. The panel's visual codes and cultural references speak to the religious and social tensions of 17th-century Europe. Made in Switzerland, it reflects the era's religious conflicts. Notice how the artist subtly incorporated contemporary architecture and dress, grounding the sacred narrative in the everyday life of the time. The inclusion of donor portraits and heraldry further underscores the importance of patronage and social status in the creation of art. Understanding this panel means delving into Reformation-era religious history. Analyzing the work's iconography, and the artist's biography, alongside archival records can reveal much about the intricate relationship between art, society, and belief. The meaning of this stained glass is contingent on its social and institutional context.