Tien melaatse mannen en de dankbaarheid van een melaatse 1791

This print, made by Simon Fokke, probably in the mid-18th century in the Netherlands, depicts two scenes from the Gospel of Luke, chapter 17. The upper image portrays Jesus healing ten lepers, while the lower one shows only one returning to give thanks. Fokke's print exists within a culture deeply shaped by religious belief and the power of the church. However, the 18th century also saw the rise of the Enlightenment, with its emphasis on reason and individual autonomy. Fokke's choice to depict this particular story and in two panels, might reflect a subtle commentary on social expectations, as well as faith and gratitude. To fully understand the print's significance, we can look at the visual codes of 18th-century Dutch society, the artist's biography, and the role of the Rijksmuseum as an institution that shapes our understanding of Dutch history and culture. In doing so, we can better understand the complex interplay between artistic creation, religious belief, and evolving social norms.