Uitvinding van de schilderkunst 1693

This engraving, "Invention of Painting" by Pieter Schenk, was made around 1700. The print reflects the cultural and intellectual milieu of the Dutch Golden Age, a period marked by significant advancements in art and science. At its core, the artwork explores the allegorical narrative of painting's origin. Here, we see the depiction of a love-struck maiden who traces the shadow of her lover's face on a wall. This romanticized origin story, emphasizes the role of love and inspiration in artistic creation. The presentation of the female figure highlights the complex dynamics of gender and creativity of the time. While this piece may initially seem like a celebration of artistic ingenuity, it also subtly reflects the prevailing societal norms that often marginalized women's contributions, even while acknowledging their role as a muse. The work invites us to reflect on the narratives we construct around creativity.