Herbergscène 1734 - 1785

This is Jan Stolker’s ‘Herbergscène,’ an etching made sometime in the 18th century, now held at the Rijksmuseum. The composition, dominated by tonal gradations of grey, illustrates a bustling tavern scene, yet a sense of unease pervades. Stolker uses chiaroscuro, the dramatic contrast between light and dark, to guide our eyes. Notice how the light catches the faces, drawing us into their implied narratives. The grouping of figures around the table, deeply engrossed in their games and conversations, creates a layered space that hints at complex social dynamics. The use of linear perspective converges towards the back, yet the foreground elements – the seated woman and the barrel – impede a clear view, disrupting spatial harmony. This etching, beyond its aesthetic appeal, engages with semiotic codes reflective of its time. The tavern setting, traditionally a space of social leveling and interaction, is rendered with a hint of moral ambiguity, questioning established social norms. The composition serves not only as a tableau of 18th-century life but also as a subtle commentary on human interactions.