Schenkkan naar rechts gekeerd c. 1696 - 1717

Curator: Here at the Rijksmuseum, we are fortunate to display this engraving, "Schenkkan naar rechts gekeerd," by Cornelis Danckerts II, created somewhere between 1696 and 1717. Editor: It’s a fascinating image—intricate and dense! The details almost seem to emerge from the page, it gives off a very sculptural feeling. Curator: Yes, it’s a testament to the printmaking skill of the period. Danckerts seems to be emulating the grandeur and weightiness that was valued in baroque design. We see elements of allegory and history-painting as well. Editor: Looking at the lines and textures, it seems so labour intensive to produce these prints, and for what function really? Also, the variety of material representations – is that a lion I see right on top? What’s supporting the entire composition? Men, seemingly captive... Curator: Exactly! The print served multiple functions, popularizing designs, demonstrating artistry, and participating in the dissemination of knowledge. The lion, indeed, is prominent; it symbolizes strength and perhaps, in this context, the power of the Dutch Republic. And underneath we have strong men, suggesting a foundation built on physical work and unfortunately, oppression was central for economy during the Baroque era. Editor: That kind of underbelly is almost invisible, the casual consumption of prints elides that actual processes behind the construction. Its purpose wasn’t about practical needs but demonstrating wealth and sophistication and class differences in visual culture. Curator: Absolutely, and through detailed scenes depicting historical narratives or mythological allegories, this imagery perpetuated existing social and political hierarchies. Editor: Makes one think about labour then and labour now, the price of the “refined” lifestyle. Curator: Looking closely, reflecting on both design and labor, can certainly provoke insightful connections between past and present, shedding new light on historical prints. Editor: A print like this, originally consumed to convey elegance, makes you question the materiality behind luxury.