Saint Ottilia c. 1475 - 1480

Israhel van Meckenem created this engraving of Saint Ottilia in the late fifteenth century during a time of significant religious and social change. The image depicts Saint Ottilia, the patron saint of eyesight, kneeling in prayer while an angel pulls a devil-like figure from beneath an altar. Ottilia herself was born blind, and according to legend, regained her sight upon being baptized. Her story speaks to the experiences of those living with disabilities and the hope for healing or acceptance. In the print, the suppression of the demonic figure can be understood in a broader context as representative of the struggle between good and evil, a common theme in the religious art of the time. Yet, it also invokes the historical persecution of those deemed ‘different’ or ‘sinful’. This artwork not only reflects the religious beliefs of the period but also invites us to consider the treatment of individuals with disabilities and the societal attitudes towards physical and spiritual well-being.