Jonge luy haar werk 1767 - 1793

This print, made by A. Bouwens, presents us with two scenes of courtship, laden with symbols of wealth and social aspiration. The horse motif dominates, appearing both pulling a simple cart and an elaborate carriage. The horse, throughout history, has been a potent symbol of status and power, particularly among the aristocracy. We see echoes of this in Roman triumphal processions, where white horses drew the Emperor’s chariot, a tradition that resonates even in contemporary royal displays. Yet, here, there is a subtle shift. The verses hint at vanity and the pursuit of advantage, suggesting that the display of wealth is not just about status, but about social climbing. The gesture of bending the hand toward money speaks volumes. It’s a gesture that transcends time, appearing in countless variations in art across cultures. This simple act, loaded with desire and perhaps a hint of desperation, reveals a deep-seated human preoccupation with wealth. The print invites us to reflect on how these symbols of status and desire continue to shape our social interactions, and in the cyclical progression of culture they reappear time and again in different forms.