Bilder Jacob Cats (1577–1660) – Two Fools on a Single Donkey – Engraving (1655)

Beskrivning

This moralizing engraving depicts two jesters or fools precariously riding a single donkey through a rural landscape. The central circular image is set within a rectangular frame and accompanied by extensive Dutch text and proverbs below, exploring themes of folly and social status. One fool holds a staff aloft while the donkey is shown in mid-stride, passing a distant church and village. This work is part of the literary and visual tradition of the Dutch Golden Age, using satirical imagery to provide ethical lessons and social commentary on the human condition.

Jacob Cats was a Dutch poet, humorist, jurist, and politician who remains one of the most famous figures from the Dutch Golden Age. Often referred to as Vader Cats, he achieved immense popularity through his emblem books and moralistic verses, which combined simple poetry with profound ethical lessons. His writings were found in nearly every Dutch household of the seventeenth century and significantly influenced the social and religious values of the time. Cats’ ability to translate complex theological and philosophical concepts into accessible, everyday imagery made him a cornerstone of Dutch literary and visual culture.

Artist or Maker: Jacob Cats.

Dimensions: Approximately 39 cm x 25 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.