Boer met kip 1627 - 1630

Cornelis Bloemaert created this print of a farmer with a chicken, sometime between 1603 and 1684, using engraving. The image offers a fascinating glimpse into the social and cultural context of the Dutch Golden Age. During this time, the Netherlands experienced significant economic growth and social change. Bloemaert's depiction of a farmer, a member of the working class, reflects the increasing importance of everyday life in Dutch art. The man's simple clothing and weathered face suggest an honest, hardworking individual, embodying the values of the emerging middle class. The chicken he holds could be interpreted as a symbol of rural life, or perhaps a commentary on the economic realities of the time. To truly understand the nuances of this image, we might explore the printmaking conventions of the period, and consider the role of institutions like the artist's workshop in shaping artistic production. By considering these factors, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the social and cultural forces that shaped Bloemaert's work.