H. Albertus van Trapani met het Christuskind en Maria 1619 - 1652

Nicolaes Lauwers made this print of H. Albertus van Trapani with the Christ Child and Mary, sometime in the 17th century. The scene combines earthly and celestial elements, reflecting the Catholic culture of the time. The print presents us with Albertus, a saint known for his miracles, holding the infant Christ while Mary looks on benevolently. Angels float above, bearing a scroll. Below them, a crowd of suffering people seek healing. This composition embodies core tenets of Catholicism, emphasizing the intercession of saints, the divine power of Christ, and the compassionate role of Mary. The imagery served to reinforce religious doctrine and inspire faith among the populace. Prints like this played a crucial role in disseminating religious ideas across Europe, especially during the Counter-Reformation. They would be displayed in churches, monasteries, and private homes to foster devotion and reaffirm the Church's authority. To understand this print more fully, we need to delve into the religious, political, and artistic contexts of 17th-century Europe. Investigating the lives of Albertus and Lauwers, along with the history of Catholic image-making, offers valuable insight into the complex interplay between art, religion, and society.