Rennende dieren, figuren en Narcissus 1685

This artwork, titled 'Rennende dieren, figuren en Narcissus', was created by Cornelis Schellinger in the late 17th or early 18th century. The monochromatic piece depicts a series of silhouetted figures, animals, and classical scenes. It reflects a cultural fascination with nature, mythology, and the decorative arts popular during the Baroque era. Schellinger uses the technique of paper cutting to create intricate compositions that offer a glimpse into the aesthetic sensibilities of his time. The decision to include Narcissus points towards a deeper exploration of themes such as self-awareness, vanity, and the human condition. In rendering these themes, there's a distinct absence of societal dynamics such as gender, race, and class; which could signal a departure from traditional narratives, inviting reflection on timeless human experiences through the purity of form and subject matter. The silhouettes convey a sense of drama and motion, drawing us into a world of classical myths and natural wonders.