Maaltijd te Emmaüs

About this artwork

height 93 mm x width 70 mm

Art Historical Context

**Maaltijd te Emma (Meal at Emmaus)***Anthonie van den Bos, 1778–1838, counterproof, 93 × 70 mm* Visitors to our virtual gallery will encounter *Maaltijd te Emma*, a delicate counterproof by the Dutch artist Anthonie den Bos, active during the late 18th and early th centuries. The title refers to the biblical scene from the Gospel of Luke where two disciples recognize the resurrected Jesus during a meal in Emmaus—a motif rich in Western art, symbolizing revelation and faith. Van den Bos, likely working in the tradition of Dutch printmaking, captures this intimate moment in a remarkably small format, inviting close contemplation. The medium, counterproof, is a fascinating printmaking technique: it involves pressing a fresh sheet of paper against an inked proof to create a mirror-image duplicate, often softer and more nuanced than the original. Valued by artists for study purposes or editions, it highlights van den Bos's skill in subtle tonal effects and fine detail, suited to this miniature scale. Though little-documented, such works reflect the enduring popularity of religious themes in Dutch art long after the Golden Age, blending devotion with technical innovation. This gem offers a window into 18th-century print culture, where accessibility met artistry—perfect for collectors and scholars alike. (178 words)