Hoer van Babylon 1502

Ieronimus Greff von Frankfurt created this woodcut, "Whore of Babylon," around 1500. The image offers a glimpse into the anxieties of the late medieval period. A female figure, richly adorned, stands astride a monstrous beast, a symbol drawn from the Book of Revelation. This is the Whore of Babylon, a figure representing worldly corruption. The artist was German, and this image would have resonated with contemporary religious sentiment during a time of widespread social and religious upheaval. Note how the artist uses contrasting imagery: heavenly figures above, monstrous ones below, and the gaze of onlookers to invite us into the scene. The printing press was still a relatively new technology and images like this had a significant impact on public opinion. Understanding this artwork requires attention to the political and religious history of the period. Researching popular sermons, pamphlets, and other images can provide a deeper understanding of its meaning and cultural impact.