Bilder Jacob Cats (1577–1660), Adriaen Pietersz. van de Venne (1589–1662) – Quid Capitat, Capitur – Engraving from Sinnelijcke Werken, Emblem XXV (Rotterdam, Pieter van Waesberge, 1655)

Beskrivning

This emblem, titled “Quid Capitat, Capitur” (He who captures, is captured), is emblem number XXV from Jacob Cats’s influential moralistic work Sinnelijcke Werken. The central engraving, framed within a circular medallion, shows a coastal scene with a bird caught in a trap while reaching for shellfish on the shore. The accompanying Dutch verse meditates on themes of temptation, justice, and poetic irony, expressing the idea that those who set traps or pursue selfish gain may themselves fall victim to the very snares they set.

Jacob Cats (1577–1660) was a celebrated Dutch poet, jurist, and statesman known for his emblem books that combined moralistic poetry with richly allegorical illustrations. His work was widely read across generations for its practical wisdom and domestic ideals. Adriaen van de Venne, a prolific illustrator and painter, collaborated extensively with Cats to visualize these moral teachings. This edition was printed by Pieter van Waesberge in Rotterdam in 1655.

Artist or Maker:
Jacob Cats, Adriaen Pietersz. van de Venne

Dimensions:
36 cm x 24 cm

Medium:
Engraving

Date:
1655

Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.