David en Batseba: het negende Gebod 1585 - 1589

Jan Collaert II's engraving presents David and Bathsheba, illustrating the ninth commandment. Here, the forbidden desire is palpable, represented through the intimate embrace and the setting, rich with symbols of worldly indulgence. The motif of illicit love echoes through art history, from classical depictions of Venus and Mars to later Renaissance interpretations. Notice Bathsheba's exposed breast. This symbol of vulnerability and seduction is a potent image. It reappears across centuries. Think of Titian’s Venus, or even further back, to ancient fertility goddesses. Over time this has evolved into a symbol of feminine power. The mirroring in the background reflects not just physical space, but also psychological depths, hinting at hidden desires. This reflects our collective memory. The forbidden often holds an undeniable allure. This piece taps into this primal fascination, engaging viewers on a subconscious level. It's a cyclical progression, continually resurfacing and adapting. The image of desire reminds us of its enduring power.