Reuk: vrouw met bloemen in de handen 1670 - 1713

Pieter Schenk created this print, “Reuk: vrouw met bloemen in de handen,” which translates to Scent: woman with flowers in her hands, in the late 17th or early 18th century. The print is part of a series that depicts the five senses, reflecting a popular theme in art during that time. In this image, Schenk presents an allegorical representation of scent. Here, the figure of a woman is portrayed as an embodiment of the sense of smell. Notice how the flowers in her hands, along with her serene expression, evoke the pleasure and delicacy associated with fragrances. The composition and the woman's attire reflect the period's fascination with classical themes and elegant portraiture. Schenk's work invites us to consider the cultural significance of scent and its role in shaping our perceptions and experiences. The print not only showcases the aesthetic ideals of the time but also encourages reflection on how sensory experiences are intertwined with memory, emotion, and identity.