Valkenjacht c. 1733 - 1762

Jean Moyreau created this print titled "Valkenjacht," or "Departure for the Falcon Hunt," after an original painting. It captures a moment of aristocratic leisure, depicting a group of men on horseback setting out for a hunt. The image speaks to the privileges of the upper class in the 18th century, where hunting was not merely a means of sustenance but a social ritual and a display of power. Note how the architectural backdrop and the attire of the riders mark their elevated social status. Yet, the print also invites us to consider the labor and the land required to sustain such activities, the many unnamed figures who made this lifestyle possible. Falconry itself has a long history, often associated with nobility across different cultures. Here, it is translated into a European context, reflecting specific cultural values and hierarchies. The scene evokes a blend of excitement and anticipation, as the riders and their animals surge forward into an open landscape. It is a scene of privilege. The artwork offers a glimpse into the past, prompting us to reflect on the complex relationship between humans, animals, and the environment, and consider the layers of meaning embedded in such seemingly simple depictions of daily life.