Tweede eeuw 1667 - 1672

This allegory, "Tweede eeuw," was anonymously created sometime in the second century using engraving techniques. It encapsulates societal values of its time by mapping the stages of human life onto the body of a bear. The piece resonates with the historical context of understanding life as cyclical. Visual motifs along the figure signify different life stages, from infancy to old age, mirroring societal expectations. Each stage, marked by distinct activities, from learning to laboring, reflects the era’s emphasis on duty and social roles. "Tweede eeuw" prompts us to consider how societal norms have influenced perceptions of life's trajectory. It's a reminder of the constraints of the past, and how the universal themes of growth and aging are shaped by cultural expectations. This print invites introspection on the personal and collective experiences woven into the human life cycle.