Engel bevrijdt kind uit gevangenschap in kooi 1590 - 1624

Editor: Here we have "Engel bevrijdt kind uit gevangenschap in kooi" – that’s “Angel freeing a child from captivity in a cage” – a baroque engraving from sometime between 1590 and 1624 by Boëtius Adamsz. Bolswert, currently held at the Rijksmuseum. There’s a real sense of confinement in this image. What stands out to you? Curator: Immediately, the image resonates with themes of oppression and liberation, a dialogue pertinent across centuries. Considering the historical context, this print participates in visual languages related to religious and political struggles, such as the Dutch Revolt. Can we see this cage as representing systems of power? Think of the many social structures that limit the potential and freedom, particularly of children. Editor: It's powerful to think about it representing social structures rather than just a literal prison. The angel’s intervention is key then? Curator: Exactly. How can we interpret this angel figure? It represents intervention, right? Divinely sanctioned action, disrupting those oppressive structures, fighting against injustice that aims to free the vulnerable. What is fascinating here is the way Bolswert creates parallels between religious salvation and political emancipation. Do you see any references to social hierarchies? Editor: Now that you mention it, I see a smaller cage above the main one and an opening in it. Maybe this implies further tiers of privilege and unfreedom? It seems endlessly recursive! Curator: Precisely. The symbolism speaks volumes about inequitable systems and layered forms of marginalization. Editor: I had initially only considered the image literally, but thinking about its layered context of social and political dynamics really brings so much more to light. Curator: These historical artworks can inspire new perspectives on current struggles for liberation.