Vlijt overmeestert Luiheid 1710s

"Vlijt overmeestert Luiheid" (Industry Overcomes Laziness) is an etching by Dutch artist Arnold Houbraken, dated to the 1710s. The etching, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, depicts a dynamic scene of two putti, one representing industriousness, kicking a lazy putto. This allegory highlights the importance of hard work and its triumph over laziness. The etching is small, measuring just 104 mm by 130 mm, but conveys a powerful message through its detailed imagery and dynamic composition. Houbraken was known for his etchings and engravings, particularly his portraits of Dutch artists. His work often explored moral themes, making this etching a prime example of his artistic style.