Transport van de Ark van het verbond 1722

Curator: This is "Transport van de Ark van het Verbond," or "Transport of the Ark of the Covenant," a mixed-media engraving and print created by Jacob Folkema in 1722. It's currently held here at the Rijksmuseum. What are your initial thoughts? Editor: There's a clear dichotomy in play here, with opposing figures flanking a central scene. The mood is somber, reflective. There's an overwhelming feeling of history being made— or, perhaps, lost. Curator: Precisely. Note the meticulous detailing and the strong directional lines guiding the viewer’s eye from the foreground figures to the background procession. Folkema uses light and shadow expertly to create depth. The use of line in the central crowd creates a dynamic visual rhythm as it pushes back towards the mountains. Editor: But that supposed balance masks a loaded representation. Who are those stoic, mournful women on either side? Their stillness throws the narrative's focus onto the male actors parading the Ark—further obscuring women's roles. We’re witnessing yet another example of historical narratives overshadowing women. Curator: That's an interesting perspective. However, these figures are placed outside the main image in a sculpted fashion and give dimension to the page through tromp l'oeil effects. Their allegorical framing is crucial. Note the skulls that sit below the weeping figure on the right side. These help create vanitas imagery around themes of human suffering, time, and death. Editor: And I cannot look away from that procession. What we witness isn't just history—it’s a carefully curated depiction upholding established power structures. Folkema is visually reinforcing specific hierarchical and gendered narratives. Curator: I think that’s fair to consider. And the architecture is so classically inspired! A nod to enduring motifs throughout the time that connects to history. Thank you for these added details of understanding. Editor: Thank you, likewise, for directing our eyes to the art's internal systems. I now view it differently.