Twee mannen te paard doden een luipaard 1598

This small print at the Rijksmuseum depicts two men on horseback killing a leopard. The anonymous artist rendered this dramatic hunt in a dense network of fine lines, using the stark contrast of black ink on white paper to create a dynamic scene. The composition is organized around the central struggle between the hunters and the leopard. The lines of the spears, the bodies of the horses, and the writhing form of the leopard create a sense of chaotic energy. The artist uses contrasting textures to differentiate elements. The smooth skin of the horses and men is set against the spotted fur of the leopard, which adds visual interest. A semiotic approach reveals a power dynamic: the hunters, armed and mounted, dominate the wild beast, symbolizing man's control over nature. Notice how the dense linework adds depth to the scene. The use of line serves not just a descriptive function, but also a symbolic one, illustrating themes of dominance and conflict. This print offers a complex interplay of form and meaning.