Peter Marks met zijn vijfde en zesde vrouw 1779

Daniel Nikolaus Chodowiecki created the etching "Peter Marks met zijn vijfde en zesde vrouw," sometime between 1726 and 1801. The piece offers a glimpse into the artist’s world and the societal norms of 18th-century Europe. Chodowiecki, who was active during the Enlightenment, frequently used his art to explore social issues. Here, he presents a narrative of marriage and gender roles. In one scene, we see Peter Marks with his fifth wife in what appears to be a church setting. The second scene depicts his sixth wife. The emotional and personal implications of these unions are palpable, as the artist captures a sense of unease and perhaps even exploitation. By portraying these relationships, Chodowiecki prompts us to reflect on the power dynamics inherent in marriage and the limited agency often afforded to women. The artwork thus serves as both a historical document and a commentary on the era's social constructs.