Afternoon: The Shepherd's Family c. 17th century

Curator: It’s interesting how Dancker Danckerts, who lived from 1634 to 1666, evokes a timeless quality in "Afternoon: The Shepherd's Family." It has a very calming mood. Editor: Yes, there's something serene about the composition, but I’m also struck by the material reality of it. The printmaking process itself, the labor involved in creating these fine lines to depict the figures and landscape. Curator: The pastoral imagery is archetypal – the family unit, the animals, the comforting landscape. It speaks to a longing for a simpler, more connected existence. Editor: I see the animals too. It is also easy to forget the economic realities of pastoral life. Each element represents labor, consumption, and a relationship to the land. Curator: The image of the resting mother and child reminds us of the Madonna figure, a universal symbol of nurturing and care. Editor: And consider the economics behind the print itself. Who was buying these images, and what role did they play in shaping ideas about rural life? Curator: It really is a window into how we understand the relationship between humanity and nature. Editor: Exactly! By considering the material and social context, we can gain a richer understanding of this work.