Afbeeldinghe der vyf siennen 1726 - 1750

This print, "Afbeeldinghe der vyf siennen", was made by Reinier (I) & Josua Ottens and it allegorically depicts the five senses. The image creates meaning through visual codes, cultural references, and historical associations, typical of the Dutch Golden Age, when the Ottens were active. Consider the way it comments on the social structures of its time through its allegorical representation of sight, smell, hearing, taste, and touch. The print’s self-consciously conservative style reflects the values of a society that was becoming increasingly commercial but still had firm moral codes. The institutional history of art during this period is also relevant, with printmaking playing a significant role in disseminating knowledge. Understanding such art requires examining the cultural and institutional context in which it was produced. Research resources such as period texts, social histories, and museum archives can all offer insight into this work. The meaning of art is always contingent on its social and institutional context.