Vrolijke drinker 1877 - 1915

Bernardus Arnoldus van der Eerden created this lithograph, "Vrolijke drinker," showing us a cheerful drinker holding up his glass. The man’s jovial gesture connects him to a long line of figures reveling in life's pleasures. Think back to the Roman god Bacchus, or Dionysus to the Greeks, always with his cup and vine. This motif of joyful indulgence appears in countless guises throughout history—in paintings, sculptures, and even poems. Here, the goblet is not just a vessel, but a symbol of festivity, camaraderie, and perhaps a release from worldly worries. Notice how the man’s hand is raised, almost in a blessing or toast? This gesture echoes through centuries, from religious iconography to secular celebrations. It’s a movement that speaks to our collective yearning for joy and connection. The figure’s grin and open posture signal an invitation to partake in a communal moment of happiness. The recurrence of this symbol speaks to the human spirit. It reminds us that even amidst trials, the urge to celebrate life endures, constantly resurfacing and evolving.