Maria met kind en Johannes de Doper 1601 - 1616

Guercino created this drawing of Mary with child and John the Baptist using pen and brown ink, and brush in brown and gray ink. During the 16th and 17th centuries, religious art served not just as a form of devotion, but also as a tool for shaping societal values. Consider the role of motherhood, which was often idealized and placed at the center of women's identities. Note how Mary is tenderly looking down at the children. Guercino developed alternative narratives through his work. He was interested in exploring the intimacy between mother and child in a way that still respected the religious context of the time. The delicate lines capture a sense of tenderness. This allows us to connect with the artwork on a personal level. This drawing reflects the historical and societal issues that shaped the artist’s vision.