Madonna met kind 1618 - 1655

Cornelis Schut created this etching, "Madonna met kind," capturing the tender bond between mother and child. Schut, working in the 17th century, was part of a world steeped in religious and social conventions. In this context, the image of the Madonna and Child held particular weight, symbolizing not only divine love but also the idealized roles of women and motherhood. The delicate lines of the etching emphasize the softness of their features, creating an intimate, human portrayal of a sacred relationship. The gaze of the Madonna, cast downward, speaks to a sense of protection and humility, mirroring the expectations placed upon women in that era. Yet, there's a quiet strength in her posture, a suggestion of the resilience required to navigate a patriarchal society while nurturing new life. This work invites us to reflect on the complex interplay between personal experience and societal expectation.