Lacht eens om de vier gedrochten, die de kunst u heeft bereid / Maar betracht de verdre beelden, met wat meer oplettendheid / 'K geef u, door die verdre beelden, inzien in de beedlaary / 'K regel, desaangaande, uw voordeel, regelt gy uw medely' 1806 - 1830

This print, made by Johan Noman, presents a grid of circular vignettes rendered with meticulous detail through engraving. Notice how each scene is neatly framed, creating a sense of order, yet within these confines, chaos and caricature reign. The artist teases the viewer, inviting laughter at the first four 'monstrous' images before urging a more thoughtful consideration of the rest. This duality points to a broader cultural dialogue about appearance versus reality. Are these images merely grotesque, or do they reflect deeper truths about society and the human condition? The semiotic play within each circle prompts a deconstruction of conventional beauty and morality. Ultimately, Noman uses the formal structure of the grid to explore themes of judgment and empathy. The precision of the lines contrasts sharply with the wildness of the figures, challenging us to look beyond superficial appearances and find meaning in the unexpected. It is a reminder that art often unsettles our expectations.