Hazenjacht 1622 - 1653

Gillis (I) Peeters created this etching called "Hazenjacht" which translates to "Hare Hunt", sometime in the first half of the 17th century. The scene presents a stark illustration of power dynamics and the era's cultural values, showcasing a group of hunting dogs in hot pursuit of hares. During the 17th century, hunting was a privilege largely reserved for the aristocracy. The depiction of the hunt in art was not merely a portrayal of a pastime, but a statement about social hierarchy, control over nature, and the assertion of dominance. Gillis Peeters, positioned as an artist in this society, both reflected and contributed to these prevailing attitudes through his work. The emotional tension in the scene is palpable—the desperation of the fleeing hares versus the relentless drive of the hounds. This dynamic mirrors the broader social inequalities of the time, where certain groups were often "hunted" or oppressed by those in power.