Bilder Jacob Cats (1577-1660) – Family Without a Father – Engraving (1618)

Beskrivning

"Familia Innupti Manca." This circular engraving depicts a domestic scene at a pond where a mother and her child observe ducks swimming. In the background, a grand house and garden are visible, set within a classical landscape. This emblem originates from the book Silenus Alcibiadis, sive, Proteus, published in Middelburg by Johannes Hellenius in 1618. The work serves as a moral allegory concerning family and domestic life, utilizing the imagery of the ducks and the household to reflect on the importance of paternal presence and traditional social structures during the Dutch Golden Age.

Jacob Cats was a highly influential Dutch poet, jurist, and diplomat who achieved immense popularity through his didactic writings. He is primarily known for his emblem books, which utilized complex imagery and verse to provide moral and religious instruction to the Dutch public. His cultural impact was so significant that he was affectionately known as Father Cats, as his volumes were found in almost every household in the Netherlands. In addition to his literary career, Cats held high political office, serving as the Grand Pensionary of Holland and playing a vital role in the state diplomatic affairs.

Artist or Maker: Jacob Cats.

Dimensions: Approximately 24 cm x 17 cm.

Medium: Engraving.

Date: 1618.

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.