Piëta 1628 - 1686

This "Pieta," in the Rijksmuseum collection, was made by an anonymous artist using an engraving technique. The image shows the Virgin Mary cradling the dead body of Christ. Made in the Netherlands, most likely during the 16th century, this print reflects the religious and social anxieties of the time, especially in the wake of the Protestant Reformation. The emotional intensity of the image, emphasized by the Virgin’s sorrowful expression and Christ’s limp body, aims to evoke empathy and reinforce Catholic piety amidst religious upheaval. Meanwhile, the detailed rendering of textures and light showcases the technical skill and artistic sophistication valued in the printmaking workshops of the Netherlands. Understanding this artwork fully requires research into religious art history, the history of the printing press, and the socio-political context of the Reformation. Approaching the "Pieta" in this way reveals how art is deeply embedded in its time, reflecting and shaping cultural values and beliefs.