Het feest in het huis van de rijke man c. 1630 - 1640

Crispijn van de Passe II's engraving captures a lively feast within a wealthy home, brimming with symbolic undertones. Observe the dog, a quintessential emblem of fidelity, contrasts with the scene's overall atmosphere of indulgent revelry. The dog, often depicted at the feet of loyal wives in portraits, here suggests a subtle tension. This symbol echoes through art history, from ancient Roman mosaics to Renaissance tapestries, always carrying its dual message of loyalty and vigilance. Yet, consider how the faithful dog morphs into a symbol of desire in later Rococo paintings, reflecting shifting cultural values and subconscious desires. The contrast between marital fidelity and wanton pleasure creates an intriguing visual friction, inviting us to ponder the complex interplay of societal expectations and human nature, a timeless tension resonating deeply within our collective psyche. The motifs of excess and restraint are locked in a non-linear dance, echoing through time.