Natuurkunde in de Maatschappij Felix Meritis, 1789 1789 - 1790

Curator: Looking at "Natuurkunde in de Maatschappij Felix Meritis," an engraving made around 1789-1790 by Noach van der (II) Meer, it’s striking how deeply it reflects the social ideals of its time. Editor: Yes, the overwhelming impression I get is of enlightenment—not just intellectual, but almost celestial, wouldn't you agree? The light feels... hopeful, maybe a little naive? Curator: Naive, perhaps, but intentionally so. It’s academic art through and through, showcasing a specific mode of thinking about science. We can see in the precise lines of the engraving and its allegorical elements a promotion of reason. Note the Neoclassical style; this piece functioned almost as propaganda, connecting physics to society's progress and morality. Editor: Propaganda can be so beautiful, can’t it? But those little cherubs floating around the central figure! It’s a little much for me, cloying, really. It’s a very theatrical image, what’s she sitting on anyway? Curator: Indeed, and in her lap, this shield with the society emblem— it’s about the collective endeavor. She's enthroned amidst the tools of science: globes, books on anatomy, geometric instruments, stressing how these tools help civilization flourish. What I find fascinating is that Van der Meer connects societal advancement directly with this institution. Editor: Oh yes, the books and tools... the accoutrements of thought and order! She looks somewhat unconcerned by it all! All I can think about is her face! She has these very dark eyes...like she knows some thing we don't? I guess everyone has a job! I wonder what she would make of now... what will they make of us? Curator: A wonderful point. Seeing all this talk about the social good makes me consider labor that went into not only its creation, the labour and craftsmanship, it is indeed very powerful and thought provoking. Editor: Exactly. Art invites us into conversations with those people who lived and hoped before us. This has been very illuminating, Thank You!