Tegenspoed beschermt ons tegen de duivel 1679

This engraving, "Tegenspoed beschermt ons tegen de duivel," or "Adversity Protects us from the Devil" by Gaspar Bouttats, was made sometime between 1648 and 1695. During this period, the Dutch Republic was a major center for art and printmaking, and images like this one played a significant role in disseminating moral and religious ideas. Here, Bouttats uses the visual language of his time to explore complex themes of suffering, resilience, and faith. The image shows a man on crutches, his hardship a shield against the devil's influence. It speaks to a worldview where adversity is not merely a misfortune but a test of faith, or even a form of divine protection. Poverty, illness, and disability are all touched on. The emotional power of this work lies in its ability to transform personal struggle into a source of strength. It acknowledges the pain and difficulty of life, but suggests that even in our most vulnerable moments, we are not forsaken. The work invites us to consider how we find meaning in times of hardship.