Flot vinck (Original Title) 1645

Jan Jansz. van de Velde III created this pen and brown ink drawing called "Flot Vinck" in the Netherlands, sometime in the mid-17th century. It presents a figure disguised in foliage, a whimsical commentary on the social rituals of the period. During the 17th century in the Netherlands, "Vinkeniers" were members of local guilds dedicated to catching finches. Competitions were held to see who could capture the most birds, with the winners earning considerable prestige. Van de Velde's drawing, whose title translates to "stylish finch," seems to be a satirical observation on this popular pastime, perhaps critiquing the social hierarchies and competitive spirit it engendered. The figure's awkward costume and the surrounding insects may imply a discomfort with or disruption of the natural world. By studying guild records, period literature, and social histories, we can begin to understand the cultural context of this artwork. The meaning of art is, after all, deeply rooted in the society and institutions of its time.