Bilder Jacob Cats (1577-1660) – Allegory of the lion and the gnat – Engraving (1658)

Beskrivning

"Staten en Ampten. Culex fodit oculum leonis." This circular engraving depicts a powerful lion being tormented by a swarm of gnats, with a secondary scene in the background showing figures near a rocky outcrop. The work is an emblem from the Sinn' en Minne-beelden, part of the extensive collected works titled Alle de Wercken by Jacob Cats. It was published in Amsterdam by Jan Jacobsz Schipper in 1658. The imagery serves as a political and social allegory, illustrating how even the most powerful entities can be brought to distress by small and seemingly insignificant forces, a common theme in seventeenth-century Dutch didactic literature.

Jacob Cats was a celebrated Dutch poet, jurist, and diplomat who became one of the most widely read authors of the Dutch Golden Age. He is primarily remembered for his emblem books, which combined moralizing verse with intricate illustrations to provide guidance on social, religious, and domestic life. His work was so deeply embedded in Dutch culture that he was affectionately known as Father Cats. In addition to his literary fame, he achieved significant political status, serving as the Grand Pensionary of Holland.

Artist or Maker: Jacob Cats.

Dimensions: Approximately 40 cm x 25 cm.

Medium: Engraving.

Date: 1658.

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.