The Young Drinker 1590 - 1610

This engraving, “The Young Drinker,” was produced by an anonymous artist in the Netherlands. The central figure takes a long swig from a drinking horn while seated at a table. Made in the early modern period, this image reflects the cultural importance of taverns and the social rituals of drinking. The text inscribed at the bottom of the artwork suggests the drinker loses both memory and money due to his drinking habits. We also see an inkwell and books at the bottom of the image, possible symbols of what he lost. The location of this artwork in the Rijksmuseum prompts us to think about how the work is framed by the institution of the museum. Here, the image is preserved for its artistic and historical value. If we want to know more, we could consult historical sources such as records from local taverns.