De wijsneus 1590 - 1610

This engraving, titled “The Wise Nose,” was created by an anonymous artist. The technique is quite straightforward: lines incised into a metal plate, inked, and then printed onto paper. But this simple process belies a complex cultural moment. Consider the figure depicted, a scholar seemingly engrossed in his studies, yet also ridiculous, with his spectacles perched precariously on his nose. The lines are densely packed, creating deep shadows that give the character a tactile, almost sculptural presence. Engraving was a relatively democratic medium, capable of disseminating images widely and relatively cheaply, but it was still a skilled process. The fine lines of the engraving suggest an artisan with significant training. This print pokes fun at scholarly vanity. It’s a reminder that knowledge isn't just an abstract pursuit, but is always inflected with human foibles. It blurs the lines between high art and popular culture.