Heilige familie met Johannes de Doper before 1646

This woodcut depicting the Holy Family with John the Baptist was made by Christoffel van Sichem the Younger, a Dutch artist active in the early 17th century. The image presents a vision of domesticity and piety, reflecting the religious and social values of the time. The inclusion of John the Baptist alongside the Holy Family speaks to his importance within Christian theology and the broader culture of the Netherlands. By depicting these iconic religious figures, the artist engages with the culture of his time, reinforcing its moral and religious foundations. As historians, we can examine this print through the lens of religious and social history, exploring how religious beliefs shaped daily life and artistic expression in the Dutch Golden Age. Comparing it to other contemporary artworks and religious texts allows us to understand better the cultural context in which it was created and consumed.