Het gevoel (Tactus) 1561

"Het gevoel (Tactus)" is a 1561 engraving by Cornelis Cort, a Dutch artist known for his masterful use of line and detail. Depicting the personification of touch, the female figure reaches out towards a bird perched on a reed, while a turtle crawls nearby. This artwork is a compelling visual representation of the sense of touch, a key part of the five senses, which were frequently studied during the Renaissance period. The print is characterized by its fine lines, detailed figures, and the use of contrast between light and dark areas, characteristic of the engraving technique. The composition is dynamic with an engaging interplay of light and shadow, creating a sense of depth and realism. It is housed in the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.