Staande wolf, en profil c. 1657 - 1677

Marcus de Bye created this etching of a standing wolf, in profile, sometime in the 17th century. During this period, the Dutch Golden Age was in full swing, marked by unprecedented economic prosperity, global trade, and cultural flourishing. It was also a time when the natural world began to be looked at through a scientific lens, moving away from mythological interpretations. This image captures the likeness of a wolf in quiet repose. Its gaze is fixed, conveying a sense of alertness. The surrounding landscape, though sparsely detailed, suggests a world that is both wild and open. De Bye’s choice to depict the wolf in profile allows us to observe its physical characteristics closely. As we reflect on this work, consider the historical perceptions of wolves as creatures often feared or misunderstood. De Bye’s etching offers an opportunity to view this animal with a fresh perspective, inviting us to contemplate our relationship with the natural world.