Theegezelschap 1694 - 1737

This etching, made by Pieter van den Berge, presents us with a satirical scene laden with symbols of moral decay. The composition is dominated by the presence of a devilish figure looming over a group of fashionable ladies engaged in leisurely activities. The devil, often a symbol of temptation and moral corruption, watches over the ladies. The prominent display of wealth and leisurely activity serves as a critique of vanity. It reminds me of similar depictions in medieval morality plays, where the devil lurks in the background, ready to claim the souls of those who indulge in worldly pleasures. Think of how, in earlier works, demons were depicted tempting hermits, symbolizing the inner battle between virtue and vice. This image, with its demonic presence, taps into a collective fear of moral corruption, reminding us that the allure of pleasure can lead to a slippery slope. The image shows us how symbols evolve, adapting to reflect the concerns and anxieties of different eras.