Aanbidding door de herders; Kruisiging; Opstanding van Christus 1578

This is Philips Galle's triptych "Adoration by the Shepherds; Crucifixion; Resurrection of Christ," created in the late 16th century using engraving techniques. Galle, living in a time of religious conflict, uses familiar biblical scenes to communicate complex ideas about faith, salvation, and sacrifice. Notice how the composition reinforces a linear narrative, moving from left to right, from the birth of Jesus to his death and resurrection, a symbolic representation of the Christian journey toward redemption. Galle's choice of scenes and his delicate engraving style invite contemplation on the emotional weight of these religious events, encouraging viewers to consider their personal relationship with faith. These traditional representations offer a sense of continuity, and his work provided a visual anchor for believers in a world undergoing rapid change. Galle’s engravings speak to the enduring power of faith to offer hope and meaning in times of uncertainty, reflecting the deeply personal and communal aspects of religious experience.