Man met rugzak en stok, gezien en profil 1630 - 1715

Salomon Savery created this etching of a man with a backpack and stick in the Netherlands sometime in the 17th century. Savery's image isn't just a portrait; it's a window into the social fabric of the Dutch Golden Age. The man's robust figure and simple attire suggest a working-class individual, perhaps a farmer or tradesman. His backpack and walking stick imply travel, hinting at the era's burgeoning trade networks and rural-to-urban migration. In the background, we glimpse a tranquil village scene, complete with a church. The inscription, "Ian int Ouaregat," adds another layer of meaning. This could be a reference to a specific person or location, possibly a local saying. The Rijksmuseum's curatorial files might provide more context, revealing the artwork's original purpose and audience. Was it a commentary on social mobility, a celebration of rural life, or something else entirely? By exploring the visual details and historical context, we can begin to understand the social conditions that shaped Savery's art and its relevance to its time.