Schelpvormig cartouche met zeedieren 1664

Albert Flamen made this shell-shaped cartouche with sea creatures with etching. Though undated, it likely comes from the mid-17th century. It serves as a title page for a series of prints depicting diverse species of fish, dedicated to a royal counselor. The image reflects the period's fascination with natural history and the growth of scientific illustration. It also speaks to the importance of patronage in the art world, where artists often relied on the support of wealthy individuals or institutions. The inclusion of sea creatures may be a reference to the burgeoning field of marine biology, but it's equally important to consider the cultural associations of the sea as a source of both wonder and danger. This was a period of expanding maritime exploration and trade, bringing new knowledge of the world but also posing new risks. The historian's role is to uncover these layers of meaning, drawing on textual sources, visual analysis, and a deep understanding of the social and institutional contexts in which art is made.