Rijke man met twee hoeren 1597

Gillis van Breen created this engraving, titled "Rich man with two whores" sometime between 1617 and 1622. The artwork presents a scene of wealth and moral decay in the early 17th century, reflecting the social tensions of the time. At first glance it is a scene of revelry, but it also speaks to gender and class dynamics. Here, women are reduced to commodities, and their intimate interactions with the man seem transactional, emphasizing the power imbalances inherent in such relationships. The presence of dogs further reinforces this idea, drawing a parallel between the treatment of animals and the objectification of women. Van Breen captures the tension between outward appearances and inner corruption. The emotional weight of this piece rests in its ability to reveal the dark underbelly of luxury and pleasure. Ultimately, this artwork prompts us to reflect on the human cost of indulgence and the ways in which social structures can perpetuate inequality. It is a stark commentary on the moral landscape of van Breen’s time, inviting viewers to consider the complexities of desire, power, and exploitation.