Maria van Brabant wordt beschuldigd van overspel door haar man Lodewijk II 1836

Joseph Coomans made this print, "Maria van Brabant wordt beschuldigd van overspel door haar man Lodewijk II," sometime in the 19th century using an engraving technique. In this image, we see the tragic accusation of infidelity leveled against Maria of Brabant by her husband, Louis II. Consider the social context of 19th-century Belgium, where this work was created. The image engages with historical themes, but it also reflects contemporary concerns about gender roles and power dynamics within marriage. The print invites us to consider the power of institutions and social norms to shape personal relationships. This scene is set in the 13th century, but the image creates meaning through its visual codes, such as the vulnerable posture of Maria versus the stern stance of Louis. This brings to mind other historical and artistic depictions of women accused of infidelity. To truly understand this artwork, historians would consult primary sources from the period, as well as critical analyses of gender and power in 19th-century art.