Mirjam 1588 - 1595

This engraving, "Mirjam," was created by Jan Collaert II around the late 16th century. The composition is vertically oriented with the figure of Mirjam boldly placed in the foreground. The texture of the print has been achieved through very fine and detailed lines. This gives her garments weight and dimension, inviting a tactile and visual engagement. Collaert's formal approach uses the visual language of the time to impart cultural meanings to the engraving. Note how Mirjam's figure dominates the foreground, while the background depicts a scene of soldiers. This visual hierarchy places her at the forefront of significance. Her drum is also not simply a musical instrument but acts as a symbol of celebration and triumph, connoting the power of music and collective joy. Collaert’s “Mirjam” goes beyond mere representation. It is a constructed image that actively participates in broader discourses about power, gender, and cultural identity. The interplay between form and content challenges us to consider the multiple layers of meaning embedded within the artwork.