Allegorie van de Nieuwe Kuiper, 1621 1626

This engraving, *Allegory of the New Cooper*, was created in 1621 by an anonymous artist. Its imagery is a commentary on the complex political and religious landscape of the Dutch Republic during the early 17th century. The print allegorically depicts the tensions between different societal groups, represented by figures such as a nobleman, doctor, pastor, politician, and craftsman. They are brought together by the cooper, who symbolizes the need for unity and cooperation in a time of upheaval. The cooper, working on the barrel, perhaps suggests the repair of society, to band it together again. This work reflects the intersection of class and political power, with a diverse group of figures shown working in cooperation. What I find particularly striking is how the artist uses this everyday scene to reflect the weighty issues facing their society. It reminds us that even the most ordinary moments can be infused with political and social significance.