Heilige familie bij een muur 1634 - 1679

Nicolas Pierre Loir created this print, entitled "Holy Family by a Wall," in the 17th century. During this period, representations of the Holy Family served as powerful symbols of domesticity and religious devotion, but also as vehicles for exploring broader societal values and gender roles. Mary is depicted here as a maternal figure, tenderly interacting with the infant Jesus. Yet, even in this intimate portrayal, she remains idealized, embodying the virtues of purity and piety expected of women in that era. Joseph is in the background, a more subdued figure, reflective of his role as protector and provider. The print invites contemplation on the dynamics of family, faith, and the construction of identity within the context of 17th-century Europe. The artwork offers a glimpse into the social fabric of its time, inviting us to reflect on how these representations shaped, and were shaped by, the prevailing norms and ideals.