Rokke (Raja) 1620 - 1669

Albert Flamen produced this etching of two rays, known as 'Rokke (Raja),' during the Dutch Golden Age, a period marked by unprecedented economic prosperity and artistic innovation. These marine animals, rendered with scientific precision, reflect the burgeoning interest in natural history during the 17th century, a time when European exploration and trade were expanding. The image invites us to reflect on how the natural world was perceived and commodified through the lens of colonialism and emerging scientific inquiry. The detailed depiction of the rays, set against a backdrop of serene waters, offers a stark contrast to the often turbulent realities of maritime life. These animals may evoke the sense of wonder and also represent the complex relationship between humanity and the ocean, a space of both sustenance and exploitation. The sea provided resources, yet it also became a site of conflict and displacement. The detailed lines and shading capture the texture and form of the rays, inviting us to consider our place within the broader ecosystem.