Twee mannen bij een piramide 1630 - 1706

"Twee mannen bij een piramide" (Two men by a pyramid) is an etching created by an anonymous artist sometime between 1630 and 1706, and currently housed in the Rijksmuseum. The etching depicts two men in conversation, one standing and gesturing towards the sky and the other sitting, likely representing a biblical scene. The work exemplifies the Dutch Golden Age etching style, characterized by meticulous detail and a sense of realism. The artwork's simple composition and the use of chiaroscuro, or light and shadow, highlight the figures and the pyramid in the background, which is likely a depiction of the pyramids of Egypt, a popular subject for etchings during this period. The work, measuring 244 mm high and 183 mm wide, provides a glimpse into the religious and cultural landscape of 17th century Netherlands.