Zeven eenden 1646 - 1647

Wenceslaus Hollar created "Zeven Eenden", or "Seven Ducks," using etching techniques. Hollar, born in Prague, lived through the tumultuous Thirty Years' War, experiencing displacement and hardship, which shaped his perspective and artistic output. In this piece, Hollar's meticulous observation of the natural world reflects a society grappling with questions of survival and adaptation. The ducks, rendered with scientific precision, capture both their physical form and their vital essence. Look at how each bird is caught in a different moment, from mid-flight to resting. During the 17th century, there was a growing interest in natural history and scientific exploration. Hollar's decision to depict ducks, common yet essential creatures, suggests a desire to document and understand the world. Consider how this echoes the broader human quest for knowledge amidst uncertainty. These ducks are more than just birds; they symbolize resilience and the beauty of life persisting even in times of turmoil.