Embleem met bisschop die een man beschermt tegen de verzoekingen van een duivel 1620 - 1649

This is an anonymous emblem, illustrating a bishop protecting a man from the devil's temptations, rendered with etching. Within this intricate scene, the bishop embodies the protective arm of the Church, warding off the devil's insidious grasp on the man. The emblem reflects the historical context of religious and moral instruction and the role of the clergy in guiding individuals away from sin. Gender, race, and class are subtly interwoven. The bishop stands tall, symbolizing power and authority, while the man he protects seems caught in a struggle, reflecting societal expectations of male virtue and the perils of succumbing to temptation. At the bottom of the image we can see what seem to be racialized figures tortured in hell, which emphasizes the social hierarchies and moral judgements prevalent at the time. The overall composition highlights the internal and external battles individuals faced in adhering to religious doctrines. The artwork underscores a complex interplay of power, morality, and the enduring human struggle against temptation.