Prentbijbel met voorstellingen uit het Oude en Nieuwe Testament en talrijke portretten 1653 - 1654

This bible, featuring prints from the Old and New Testaments and numerous portraits, was created by Pieter van der Borcht around the late 16th century. Printed bibles became more common as the reformation spread across Europe and literacy increased. Although the reformation challenged the authority of the Catholic Church, the imagery included here is largely conservative, presenting biblical narratives in a traditional, didactic manner. Institutions such as the Rijksmuseum play a crucial role in preserving and presenting these objects. Studying the bible's production and reception helps us understand the complex interplay between religious belief, social change, and artistic expression in the Netherlands during this turbulent period. Examining the paper, binding, and printing techniques, as well as the historical context of its creation, reveals the social conditions that shaped its production. Such historical and archival research can provide insights into the role of religious institutions in shaping public life.