Het bal 1541

"Het Bal" was made by Cornelis Anthonisz using woodcut, a testament to the flourishing artistic scene in the Netherlands during the 16th century. The image depicts a social gathering, a ball, with figures engaged in dance and conversation. The composition, with its attention to detail in costume and setting, provides a glimpse into the social customs and values of the time. Produced in the Netherlands, a region marked by burgeoning trade and humanist thought, the print reflects the era's emphasis on worldly pursuits. It’s worth considering the role of guilds and artistic patronage in shaping Anthonisz’s work. Was he influenced by the religious and political tensions of the time? Did he critique the institutions of art? Studying archival records, such as guild documents and patronage records, would help us better understand Anthonisz’s artistic choices and their social implications.