Maria met Kind en drie engelen 1687 - 1723

This engraving titled ‘Maria met Kind en drie engelen’ is an anonymous work held at the Rijksmuseum. The composition is densely packed, drawing the eye across a scene rich with symbolic elements. At its heart, the figure of Mary is depicted with the Christ child, surrounded by three angels, beneath a fruit-laden tree. Formally, the tight arrangement of figures and objects creates a sense of intimacy, yet this closeness also amplifies the emotional depth, drawing on well established cultural codes. The precise linework and the interplay of light and shadow emphasize the texture of fabrics, skin, and foliage, reinforcing a complex narrative. Each component, from the fruit offered by the angels to the protective stance of Mary, operates as a sign within a semiotic structure, inviting layered interpretations. Consider how the anonymous artist uses these formal elements to both affirm and question established religious motifs, reflecting the ongoing reinterpretation of sacred narratives within the visual arts.