Portret van Jan van Beuningen 1670 - 1724

This is Jacob Gole’s portrait of Jan van Beuningen, etched into being. Observe the dog, a symbol of loyalty, receiving Van Beuningen's gentle caress. It's a tender moment, laden with meaning. The motif of humans with animals stretches back into the depths of history, appearing on ancient Egyptian tombs and Greek sculptures. But here, there's a twist. Van Beuningen covers the dog’s eyes with his hand. In antiquity, shielding the eyes could symbolize protection from evil or revelation. It might suggest a deeper connection, a shared secret, or perhaps a desire to shield the loyal creature from the harsh realities of the world. The bond between man and animal engages our subconscious, tapping into primal emotions of companionship, trust, and even vulnerability. These symbols reappear in the human psyche, in dream states, and in art, and have been passed down through history, shifting in meaning.