Herbergen van vreemdelingen Possibly 1626 - 1671

Sebastien Bourdon created this print, "Shelters of Strangers," as an etching. Bourdon lived during a time of religious and political upheaval in Europe, and his art often reflected the social dynamics of his era. This print depicts a scene of hospitality, with figures attending to weary travelers, a common theme in religious art and emblematic of Christian charity. The act of washing feet, traditionally performed by servants, symbolizes humility and service, virtues often associated with femininity, yet here performed by both men and women. Bourdon navigates the complex intersection of gender roles and social expectations. In Bourdon's time, representations of charity and hospitality often served as moral lessons. "Shelters of Strangers" invites us to reflect on the ethical responsibilities of host and guest, while subtly questioning conventional gender dynamics, and highlighting human compassion.