Maria met kind 1500 - 1580

This is Marco Dente’s "Maria met kind," made around the early 16th century using engraving. Dente, an Italian printmaker, was active during the High Renaissance, a period when there was a renewed interest in classical art and humanism. Here, Mary’s downcast gaze and gentle embrace evoke a sense of tenderness, humility, and maternal love. This portrayal also reflects the prevalent ideals of womanhood at the time, which emphasized women’s roles as nurturers and caregivers. The act of breastfeeding challenges traditional representations of motherhood. It also raises questions about female autonomy and sexuality. By depicting this very private moment, Dente acknowledges the physical and emotional labor involved in motherhood, providing a more nuanced and humanizing portrayal of Mary. The intimacy depicted between mother and child invites viewers to reflect on the universal themes of love, sacrifice, and the bond between parent and child.