Bilder Jacob Cats (1577–1660) – Emblem of Social Conflict – Engraving (Circa 1632)

Beskrivning

This engraving is a moralistic illustration, or emblem, titled "Roert het Burgerlick Leven" (Stirring up Civic Life). The accompanying Dutch motto translates roughly to: "The dog one takes a bone from and knows no friends." The circular image depicts a peasant figure reaching toward a growling dog that aggressively guards a bone on the ground. The agitated scene takes place in a rural setting with windmills and a distant town silhouette. This emblem serves a didactic purpose common to the era, illustrating the folly and danger of avarice, arguing that greed destroys goodwill and relationships even among friends. The print originates from Jacob Cats's widely influential emblem book, Spiegel van den Ouden en Nieuwen Tydt (Mirror of the Old and New Time).

Jacob Cats was a Dutch poet, diplomat, and statesman, known for his prolific output of moralistic and often witty emblem books which were extraordinarily popular among the Dutch middle class during the 17th century. His work provided practical and ethical instruction through compelling visual parables.

Artist or Maker: Jacob Cats

Dimensions: Approximately 26 × 20 cm

Medium: Engraving

Date: Circa 1632

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.