Gulzigheid Possibly 1670 - 1724

Jacob Gole created this print called "Gulzigheid," or "Gluttony," using etching techniques sometime between 1660 and 1737. It's a stark depiction of unrestrained appetite, reflecting on the social and moral attitudes of the Dutch Golden Age. The image presents a figure with exaggerated features, voraciously devouring a sausage. The print is accompanied by a short poem that tells us that the man eats 'Boudin' as a false act of penance. The excessiveness is meant to serve as a critical commentary on the period's increasing prosperity and the potential for moral decay. In the 17th century, the Dutch Republic was experiencing unprecedented economic growth, leading to debates about the virtues of moderation versus the allure of material pleasures. Prints like this one circulated widely, serving as both entertainment and moral instruction. To understand this work better, we can look at the broader context of Dutch genre painting and the role of religious and secular ethics in shaping social behavior. Through careful historical analysis, we can appreciate how art reflects and shapes cultural values.