Siciliaanse vissers duiken naar koraal 1605

Antonio Tempesta made this print, "Sicilian fishermen diving for coral," in the late 16th or early 17th century using etching and engraving. It depicts a bustling scene of men engaged in the dangerous work of coral harvesting. What does this image tell us about the social conditions of its time? The division of labor is stark: some men dive, risking their lives in the sea, while others manage the boats and presumably the trade. The presence of ships suggests this activity is part of a larger economic system, connecting Sicily to wider trade networks. The men's near-nudity is not merely aesthetic; it reflects the practical needs of divers and their low status. To fully understand this print, we can research the history of coral harvesting in Sicily, its economic significance, and the social hierarchy of maritime labor. We might also investigate the role of institutions, such as merchant guilds, in regulating this trade. This print offers a glimpse into the complex relationships between people, labor, and the natural resources that shaped early modern society.