Bilder Jacob Cats (1577–1660) – Examining the Merchandise – Engraving (1630–1660)

Beskrivning

This engraving depicts a moralizing scene of a woman and child examining various goods at an outdoor market stall, featured within an oval frame for the work of Eerlicke Vryagie. The composition shows a young woman in elegant contemporary attire pointing toward items displayed in a wooden booth, while a small child and a pet dog stand beside her. In the background, other figures and the architecture of a town square are visible, suggesting a busy mercantile environment. The illustration is accompanied by extensive multilingual text in Dutch, Latin, French, and Italian, including the Dutch proverb Schoon voor-doen is half verkocht, which serves as a metaphor for the importance of appearances and presentation in courtship. This work served as a technical plate within an emblem book intended to provide moral and social instruction on the conduct of daily life and the nuances of social interaction during the seventeenth century.

Jacob Cats was a highly influential Dutch poet, jurist, and politician who became one of the most widely read authors of the Dutch Golden Age. He is best remembered for his emblem books, which combined moralistic verse with detailed illustrations to offer guidance on marriage, household management, and child-rearing. His works, often referred to affectionately as the Father Cats bibles, were staple household items in the Netherlands for centuries due to their accessible wisdom and relatable domestic themes. Beyond his literary success, Cats served in high government offices, including as Grand Pensionary of Holland, and his contributions to Dutch culture solidified his role as a primary voice for the ethical and social values of the seventeenth-century mercantile class.

Artist or Maker: Jacob Cats .

Dimensions: Approximately 39 cm x 25 cm .

Medium: Engraving .

Date: 1630–1660

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.