Kruisiging 1590 - 1622

This engraving of the Crucifixion was made by Boëtius Adamsz. Bolswert, though the exact date is unknown. As we can see, the artist was trying to convey to the viewer what it was like to witness this scene. This depiction of the Crucifixion uses visual codes and cultural references that would have been easily understood in the Netherlands, where it was made. The religious and political conflicts between Catholics and Protestants certainly influenced the production and reception of such images. By emphasizing the suffering of Christ, the artist likely aimed to evoke a sense of piety and religious devotion among viewers in this era of religious conflict. As art historians, we can look at other images made at this time and in this place, and analyze the social and institutional contexts in which the artist was working to gain a deeper understanding of the cultural meanings of this image. The meaning of art is contingent on its social and institutional context.