Don Diego uit Castilië en zijn vrouw 1641

"Don Diego uit Castilië en zijn vrouw" was created by Crispijn van de Passe the Younger in the 17th century. The print depicts Don Diego and his wife as two distinct portraits, reflecting the societal roles and expectations placed upon men and women of their time. Consider the power dynamics at play; Diego is presented in a posture of authority, hand on his hip, while his wife is pictured in a more intimate setting, holding hands with her husband. The accompanying Dutch text offers a critical commentary on their perceived virtues and vices. The artist invites us to reflect on the constructed nature of identity and how societal judgements can shape individual reputations, while also reminding us of the very personal and emotional lives contained within these historical figures.