Heilige Stefanus met stenen 1500 - 1575

This small, anonymous engraving depicts Saint Stephen holding stones and a palm leaf. The palm leaf symbolizes martyrdom, referencing the persecution faced by early Christians. During the period this print was made, religious identity was a powerful social marker. Consider how faith could dictate one’s community, legal rights, and social status. Stephen’s story – one of faith, defiance, and ultimately, death – resonated profoundly in a world often divided along religious lines. The stones are not merely objects; they are symbols of exclusion, violence, and a society’s rejection of differing beliefs. Look at Stephen's face – the artist has captured a sense of resolve despite the stones he holds. He is a man standing firm in his convictions, even in the face of death. This image serves not only as a religious icon but also as a reminder of the human capacity for both profound faith and brutal intolerance.