Maria met kind zittend op wolken omringd door engelen 1511 - 1561

This is an undated etching by an anonymous artist, titled "Maria met kind zittend op wolken omringd door engelen," held at the Rijksmuseum. The image presents us with a gendered representation of divinity, portraying the Virgin Mary with the Christ child, set in a heavenly scene. The piece invites us to consider the role of women and motherhood within religious and cultural narratives. The way Mary is depicted, serene and maternal, echoes societal expectations placed on women, particularly within a patriarchal framework. Simultaneously, the presence of angels and the ethereal setting romanticize motherhood. The artwork may be seen as upholding traditional representations of women, but it also celebrates the unique strength and grace associated with the maternal role. It prompts a reflection on the personal experiences and emotional dimensions tied to motherhood.