Feast in the woods

1601

This famous rendering of an imaginary castle in a landscape by De Bruyn was possibly a source of inspiration for Roghman. As well as being a haven of safety, a castle was also considered a ‘castle of love.’ In this print, Mary Magdalene (left foreground) and her entourage make merry in the woods. The obviously amorous atmosphere contrasts with the three crosses in the distance, a reference to Christ’s suffering.