Wijn proeven 1655 - 1700

Jan van Somer made this print of ‘Wine Tasting’ using etching. It depicts a scene of men drinking in what appears to be a cellar, a common subject in Dutch art and culture, particularly in the 17th century. The image creates meaning through visual codes associated with leisure and indulgence. Drinking, especially in a social setting, can be seen as a form of bonding and relaxation, but also as a potential source of moral decay, a debate that was very prevalent at the time. The Dutch Golden Age, during which this print was likely made, was a period of great economic prosperity but also social change. The tavern was an important part of social life, particularly for the working class, a place to exchange ideas, conduct business, and escape the hardships of daily life. To understand this work better, we can look to the social and economic conditions of the time. By studying historical documents, literature, and other artworks from the period, we can gain insight into the complex relationship between art, society, and individual experience.