The Massacre of the Innocents c. 1576 - 1580

Léonard Gaultier's etching "The Massacre of the Innocents" plunges us into a scene of infanticide, capturing the biblical story of King Herod's decree. The image is dominated by the brutal soldiers and distraught mothers, their gestures of anguish echoing across time. Consider the raised arms, the open mouths—these are not unique to Gaultier. We see them echoed in the ancient sculptures of mourning figures, and in the dramatic poses of Renaissance paintings depicting suffering. This motif of lamentation becomes a visual shorthand, a powerful force engaging us on a deep, subconscious level. It taps into our collective memory of pain and loss, creating a visceral connection to the event. Throughout history, this archetype evolves; from religious iconography to secular art, its emotional resonance persists. The massacre itself becomes a symbol, recurring in different forms, reflecting society’s changing attitudes towards violence and innocence. Its cyclical progression allows it to resurface in different historical contexts, charged with new meanings.