Voetwassing 1610 - 1676

This engraving by Marx Anton Hannas captures the poignant scene of the Washing of the Feet. Christ, haloed, is depicted in a humble act of service, washing the feet of his disciples, a powerful symbol of humility, love, and purification in Christian iconography. This motif of foot washing is not unique to the Gospels; it echoes rituals found across cultures, symbolizing hospitality, respect, and the cleansing of impurities. Consider, for instance, similar acts of servitude in ancient Roman and Greek cultures, where slaves would wash the feet of their masters. In ancient times, the feet were considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body, and washing them was an act of deep respect or servitude. Hannas's engraving taps into a collective memory, a primal recognition of the need for purification and the transformative power of humility. The emotional weight of this image lies in its depiction of the profound, almost paradoxical nature of divine servitude—a notion that continues to resonate across centuries. This symbol has evolved and resurfaced, carrying different layers of meaning while preserving the core theme of humility and service.