Bilder Adriaen van de Venne (1589–1662), after – Nightmare of a Prince – Copperplate Engraving from Sorghvliet / Ouderdom in Alle de Wercken by Jacob Cats (c.1712)

Beskrivning

This allegorical copperplate engraving—titled Nightmare of a Prince—illustrates the moral anxieties and vanities afflicting an aging ruler, featured as the frontispiece to Ouderdom ("Old Age"), a section of Jacob Cats’ Sorghvliet. The central figure, a crowned man slouched in contemplation, is assailed by winged putti, monsters, beggars, jesters, and allegorical figures wielding theatrical spears, swords, and temptation. In the background, a columned hall and scenes of civic unrest emphasize the chaos that moral decay can bring when wisdom is not upheld. The curtain framing reinforces the theatricality of the scene—this is the drama of age, power, and memory.

The composition is based on a design by Adriaen van de Venne, one of the principal illustrators of Cats’ emblem books. This print comes from a later folio edition of Alle de Wercken, likely the 1712 or 1726 printing, which collected Cats’ complete moral, political, and emblematic writings into a richly illustrated, large-format volume.

Jacob Cats (1577–1660) was a leading poet, jurist, and statesman of the Dutch Republic. His works, especially those centered on love, virtue, and aging, were widely read and became foundational texts for generations of Dutch citizens.

Artist or Maker:
Adriaen van de Venne (after)

Dimensions:
38 cm x 24.5 cm

Medium:
Copperplate engraving

Date:
c.1712

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.