De dwerg Jan Hagel als een Hollandse bootsknecht, 1720 1718 - 1720

This engraving, "De dwerg Jan Hagel als een Hollandse bootsknecht," by Fopje Folkema, dates back to 1720. The composition, dominated by sharp lines and stark contrasts, immediately draws the eye to the central figure: a caricatured dwarf, Jan Hagel. His exaggerated features and stout form evoke a sense of grotesque humor. The use of hatching and cross-hatching defines the textures and volumes, creating depth in the otherwise flat plane. Observe how the artist uses scale to emphasize Hagel's dominance over the background scene, where sailors seem to be playing a game of sorts. This engraving challenges fixed notions of heroism and maritime power by portraying its subject as both comical and capable. It destabilizes traditional representations, prompting a re-evaluation of cultural values and societal norms. The work functions as a critical commentary on the era, inviting ongoing interpretation and reflection.