De verdrijving van Sorgheloos 1541

Cornelis Anthonisz. created this colored woodcut, "The Expulsion of Carelessness" at an unknown date. The print allegorizes the concept of "Sorgheloos," or Carelessness, through its violent expulsion from a domestic interior. It is a fascinating glimpse into the social values of the Dutch Renaissance. Produced during a time of religious and political upheaval, the print vividly captures anxieties about moral decline. "Sorgheloos" is assaulted by figures representing poverty, misery, and discord, suggesting the consequences of a life without virtue. What makes this work particularly compelling is its commentary on social structures. By associating "Carelessness" with chaos and suffering, Anthonisz. reinforces the importance of diligence and piety in maintaining social order. The text frames below each character add layers of meaning to the print’s narrative. To fully appreciate this image, one might consult contemporary texts on moral philosophy and social conduct from the 16th century, gaining insight into the cultural context that shaped Anthonisz.'s vision. The meaning of art resides not just in the image itself but in the network of social and institutional forces that brought it into being.