Zeven jaren van overvloed 1645 - 1740

This engraving, made by Christoffel van Sichem II, illustrates the Biblical story of the seven years of abundance in Egypt. The figures hauling grain and the overflowing granaries are potent symbols of prosperity, resonating with ancient agricultural societies' dependence on successful harvests. This motif of abundance is not unique; we see echoes in ancient Roman cornucopias and harvest festivals dedicated to deities. It expresses a universal desire for nature's bounty and the fear of scarcity. Looking closer, the well-dressed figures overseeing the collection of grains remind me of similar scenes in medieval tapestries depicting courtly life. The composition and symbolism around the act of collecting and storing food carry a powerful emotional weight – the hope for survival and the deep-seated anxiety about the future. This visual language of prosperity serves as a recurring theme throughout art history, evolving and adapting to reflect the specific cultural and historical contexts in which it appears.