XXXIII Vlyen weet wat 1614

"XXXIII Vlyen weet wat" is a 1614 etching by Roemer Visscher, a prominent Dutch Golden Age artist. This print is part of a series of illustrations called “Van de Sinnepoppen”, which literally means "from the sense-puppets," and refers to the allegorical figures represented in the work. This particular artwork is a depiction of a man attempting to grasp a fly that is just out of reach, while illustrating the proverb, “A fly knows what’s good for it”, or “The fly knows what it’s doing”, and suggests that humans should learn from flies how to focus their attention and make practical decisions. The image is a fine example of Visscher’s talent for detail and humor, and demonstrates his mastery of the etching technique, creating a sense of texture and movement in the composition.