Judas brengt de zilverlingen terug 1606 - 1674

Leonaert Bramer made this drawing of "Judas returning the silver" with pen in the Netherlands during the 17th century. Bramer's image creates meaning through cultural reference, evoking the well-known biblical narrative of Judas's betrayal and subsequent remorse. The artist emphasizes the power dynamics at play. Judas is depicted in a state of anguish, contrasting with the apparent indifference of the seated figures. The drawing may subtly critique the religious institutions of the time, hinting at themes of guilt, power, and moral responsibility. Understanding this work necessitates a close examination of the religious and social climate of the 17th-century Netherlands, as well as institutional histories of the church and its role in shaping artistic production. The meaning of this drawing is contingent on its socio-political and institutional context.