Engeltjes buitelen door de lucht 1613 - 1656

Curator: So, here we have "Engeltjes buitelen door de lucht" or "Angels tumbling through the air," an engraving by Cornelis Danckerts I, created sometime between 1613 and 1656. What do you think? Editor: Absolute chaos! But like, delightful chaos. It's a whirlwind of cherubic limbs and chubby cheeks, all suspended in this vaguely suggested sky. It's almost dizzying how much movement is packed into a single image, it's got so much happening for something black and white, you know? Curator: It’s part of a series representing the elements, I believe this one symbolizes air—that’s also written as "Aër" at the centre. And I agree, for a still image, Danckerts really conveys a sense of dynamism. Consider the historical context; printmaking at this time was crucial for disseminating ideas and imagery. The baroque loved exuberance. Editor: Totally baroque! It feels like the Rococo just before it wised up a little! But still so ornate. It's like these angels are staging some sort of aerial ballet, or perhaps just a rambunctious game of tag in the heavens. It’s interesting though, each cherub is individualized with slightly unique expressions. I like the suggestion that individuality always rises out of even the busiest contexts, what do you think? Curator: Exactly! And, thinking about audiences at the time, this engraving provided a window into allegorical narratives that reinforced established worldviews, it showed a sort of established sense of order by portraying the celestial as being active yet obedient and under divine control. They serve as a symbolic, playful reminder of a divinely-orchestrated world order. Editor: But I mean, angels behaving badly a little? Even with all that context, it just feels, playfully disorienting. I can't help but see it through a modern lens, of course! Curator: Which is important! After all art lives when its revisited, time after time! Editor: Definitely! Well, my brain's thoroughly tumbled now. Quite fitting.