Bilder Jacob Cats (1577-1660) – Allegory of the Virgin of Dordrecht – Engraving (1655)

Beskrivning

"Proefsteen van den Trouwring. Het Tweede Deel." This engraving features an allegorical scene centered on a seated female figure, representing the Virgin of Dordrecht, positioned upon a cloud above a topographical view of the city of Dordrecht. She is surrounded by numerous putti who present her with open books and mirrors, while a banner above her bears the Latin inscription "Virgo Dordracena." This print serves as the title page for the second part of the work Proefsteen van den Trouwring, published in Amsterdam by Jan Jacobsz. Schipper. The imagery is deeply rooted in Dutch civic pride and moral philosophy, celebrating the intellectual and spiritual virtues associated with the city and the institution of marriage.

Jacob Cats was a preeminent Dutch poet, jurist, and diplomat who became one of the most widely read authors of the Dutch Golden Age. He achieved immense popularity through his didactic emblem books, which utilized everyday domestic imagery to convey complex moral, religious, and social lessons. His writing style was so accessible and his moral advice so deeply integrated into Dutch culture that he earned the affectionate title Father Cats. Beyond his literary success, Cats held high-ranking political positions, including the office of Grand Pensionary of Holland, and played a significant role in the diplomatic and legal foundations of the Dutch Republic.

Artist or Maker: Jacob Cats.

Dimensions: Approximately 40 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.