Heilige Familie met Johannes de Doper 1667 - 1725

Jean-Baptiste Nolin created this engraving, "Holy Family with John the Baptist," in the late 17th or early 18th century, a period marked by strict social hierarchies and religious norms. The image presents an idealized version of motherhood and family, characteristic of its time. Mary is depicted as serene and nurturing, while Joseph embodies patriarchal stability. Yet, this very presentation raises questions about the lived realities of women and families then. How does this polished image align with the experiences of women, especially those outside the privileged classes? The inclusion of John the Baptist adds a layer of religious and historical context, further embedding the artwork in the dominant religious narratives of the time. Does this depiction reinforce traditional roles, or does it offer a glimpse into alternative narratives of familial and spiritual connection? Ultimately, this engraving invites us to reflect on the complex interplay between representation and reality, faith and identity, in a world undergoing profound social and cultural change.