Allegorische voorstelling met Vrijheid, Overvloed en de Batavier Claudius Civilus 1772 - 1774

This etching, "Allegorische voorstelling met Vrijheid, Overvloed en de Batavier Claudius Civilus," was created by Reinier Vinkeles. The image is created through a labor-intensive process of incising lines into a metal plate. The fine lines of the engraving allow for an incredible level of detail. But what does this mean for the image itself? We see an allegorical scene; allegories were very popular during the time this was made. The image depicts a classical scene of freedom, abundance, and Claudius Civilis. Notice the way the artist has used the etching technique to create a sense of depth and texture. The figures are rendered with careful attention to anatomy and drapery, while the landscape is filled with delicate foliage and grazing animals. Through such highly skilled labor, and detailed allegorical scenes, the artist elevates his status and affirms a commitment to craft.