Rechtspraak van Daniël 1525 - 1600

This print of ‘The Judgement of Daniel’ was produced anonymously, using pen and brown ink, brush and brown wash, over black chalk. It depicts a scene from the Old Testament, where Daniel exposes false accusations to save Susanna. The image is steeped in the visual culture of its time and likely dates to the 16th century. The architecture, clothing, and weaponry reflect the conventions of Renaissance Europe, though the specific location and date of its creation are unknown. What’s interesting is the subject itself; Susanna's story highlights themes of false accusation, abuse of power, and the importance of just governance. We could consider the artist's motivations in depicting it, and how this challenges contemporary social norms, particularly around gender and authority. As art historians, we might look into period literature, legal documents, and other visual sources to understand the print better. Examining patronage networks and the circulation of similar images might reveal who commissioned it, and for what purposes it was made. Ultimately, this print offers a fascinating window into the complex social and institutional dynamics of its time.