Tafelversiering bij de gouden bruiloft van burgermeester Gerrit Hooft, 1757 1757

Simon Fokke created this pen drawing in 1757 to commemorate Gerrit Hooft's golden wedding anniversary in the Netherlands. It's an elaborate design for a table decoration, complete with figures, architectural elements, and ornate details. The whole scene probably functioned as a miniature stage, reflecting the wealth and status of the celebrated mayor. This kind of display was integral to solidifying social bonds and hierarchies in 18th-century Dutch society. We can investigate further into the occasion of the event and how the design elements reflect specific virtues or achievements associated with Hooft and his family. By exploring period sources like banquet programs, local newspapers, or family archives, we might gain deeper insights into the symbolism and social context of this drawing. Art like this reminds us of how cultural expressions are intertwined with the social fabric of their time.