Print Description
The engraving is a detailed illustration and seems to be part of a series, representing the months of the year. The central figure is a jovial man with a robust physique, seated, and holding up a pie with a bird emerging from it, suggesting a form of culinary entertainment or presentation common in banquets during the period. His facial expression is one of delight and amusement, contributing to the overall lively atmosphere of the scene. The man is dressed in clothing of the era, with puffy sleeves and a wide collar, typical of 17th-century European fashion. Beneath the central figure is a richly detailed depiction of various animals, including a boar and a goat, which are likely indicative of feasting and abundance associated with the time of year. These animals are depicted with great anatomical detail and dynamic postures, adding to the sense of realism and the thematic representation of the engraving. In the background, there is a scene of revelry with tiny figures that seem to be engaged in a dance, which may suggest the festivities associated with the carnival season that occurs in February, leading up to Lent. The engraving is accompanied by text in Latin, which alludes to both the festive and indulgent nature of the month, as well as perhaps moralistic undertones regarding excess and folly. The engraving reflects the technical skill of the period and the use of intaglio printing techniques common in the Netherlands’ rich tradition of printmaking.
Made by Theodor Matham after Joachim von Sandrart (I).
Medium: Engraving on hand laid (verge) paper.
Sheet size: 26.2 x 35.5 cm (10.31 x 13.98 inch). Image size: 24.3 x 29.3 cm. (9.57 x 11.54 inch).
Condition: good, given age. Age related paper soiling and foxing. Some restored tear in bottom margin. General age-related toning and/or occasional minor defects from handling. Please study scan carefully.
FEBRUARIUS-FEBRUARY-JOVIAL-COOK | EXPO-DUTCH/FLEMISH
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Source: unknown, to be determined.
Biography engraver: Theodor Matham, also Theodoor Matham (born 1589) was a Dutch engraver. He was the younger son of the better known engraver Jacob Matham, and the brother of the engravers Jan and Adriaen Matham.
Biography artist: Joachim von Sandrart (1606-1688) was a German Baroque art-historian and painter, active in Amsterdam during the Dutch Golden Age.
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