Herfst c. 1758

This print, titled "Herfst," which translates to "Autumn" in English, was made by an anonymous artist. The print depicts a pastoral scene, laden with symbolism reflective of its era. At its heart, we see themes of courtship and labor, wrapped in the guise of seasonal allegory. The well-dressed man, seemingly of higher social standing, interacts closely with the woman holding a basket overflowing with grapes, hinting at both the harvest and perhaps, a more intimate yield. Other figures work in the background, grounding the image in the realities of agricultural life, and suggesting the class distinctions inherent in this society. The image evokes a sense of abundance, but also hints at the fleeting nature of beauty and the passage of time. It invites us to consider the complex interplay between desire, social roles, and the ever-changing seasons of life.