Liggende leeuw opzij kijkend 1664

Editor: This is "Liggende leeuw opzij kijkend," or "Lying Lion Looking Sideways," a pen and ink drawing with etching by Marcus de Bye from 1664. It’s held at the Rijksmuseum. I find the lion's expression quite intriguing; he looks almost melancholic, as though burdened by the weight of his own power. What do you make of this depiction, especially considering its historical context? Curator: That's a great starting point. I think it’s important to look at the lion not just as a symbol of power, but through the lens of the Dutch Golden Age, when overseas trade and colonialism were on the rise. The lion, traditionally a symbol of royalty and dominance, also became associated with the Dutch Republic itself. However, consider the subtle critique inherent in portraying him as pensive or even weary. What power dynamics are at play when the symbol of imperial authority is presented with such nuanced vulnerability? Editor: That’s fascinating. So, it's less about celebrating strength and more about questioning the implications of that power? The positioning in the landscape suggests a vulnerability in a world not fully controlled. Curator: Exactly. And thinking about the animal as a commodity for display in wealthy households through colonial trades, can influence the interpretation as well. This also invites us to consider this creature in a Dutch setting, when they aren't naturally indigenous. The work encourages critical reflection, and considering what has been left out, or implied, within the work. Who benefits from this representation, and who might be marginalized or silenced by it? Editor: I hadn’t considered the social and political commentary embedded within what seemed like a simple animal study. Thanks, that was very helpful! Curator: Absolutely. It shows us how even seemingly straightforward images can reveal a great deal about a society's values and anxieties.