Verliefd paar in het bos 1698 - 1776

Johannes de Groot created this piece, "Verliefd paar in het bos," or "Lovers in the Woods," sometime in the 18th century using etching techniques. During this time, art often served as a reflection of societal values, particularly those of the dominant class. In this idyllic scene, we observe a couple in a secluded forest setting, seemingly removed from the concerns of daily life. The woman's exposed chest and the man's guiding hand raise questions about gender roles and expectations. The scene could be seen as representative of the conventional romantic ideals. Look closer, and you'll see other figures lurking in the shadows. Are they a threat, or are they merely part of the landscape? This ambiguity speaks to the complexities of desire, pleasure, and social tension. De Groot invites us to consider not only what we see but also what remains hidden just beyond the edge of the light.