Vlijtigheid en opschepperigheid 1784

This print, "Vlijtigheid en opschepperigheid," was made by Daniel Nikolaus Chodowiecki, likely in the late 18th century. Etched lines bring to life two contrasting characters: a man bent over his work and a braggart. Produced in the German-speaking world during the Enlightenment, this little print speaks volumes about the social values being debated at the time. Here we see a visual shorthand for the virtues of diligence versus the vice of boastfulness. Consider the rise of a new merchant class and the value placed on hard work and self-improvement. The image invites us to reflect on the merits of disciplined labor versus the empty promises of vanity. To fully appreciate this work, we might turn to conduct books popular at the time or explore the writings of philosophers who debated the role of individual character in shaping society. Understanding such cultural and institutional contexts will help you to discover the nuances of this print.