Het kleden van de naakten 1577

Philips Galle created this print, "Het kleden van de naakten," meaning "clothing the naked," at an unknown date, using engraving techniques. The print visualizes one of the seven acts of mercy. Galle's image creates meaning through the visual codes of his time, referencing the religious and social customs of 16th-century Europe. Made in the Netherlands, a region deeply influenced by the Reformation, the artwork comments on the social structures of its time. The act of clothing the naked is not merely an act of charity but a critique of societal norms, as it challenges the viewer to consider the material and spiritual needs of others. To truly understand this print, we need to consult historical texts and documents, examining the role of religious institutions and charitable organizations in providing aid to the poor and marginalized. By understanding the institutional context of this artwork, we can gain a deeper appreciation of its social and cultural significance.