Illustratie voor de Decamerone van Boccaccio 1697

Curator: This is an illustration for Boccaccio's "Decameron," created by Romeyn de Hooghe in 1697. It's currently housed here at the Rijksmuseum. What’s your initial reaction to it? Editor: My first thought? It's wonderfully theatrical! Like a tiny stage crammed with players caught in a moment of high drama... but with slightly confused expressions. And is that dueling going on outside the window? Curator: It could be. This print really encapsulates the energy of De Hooghe’s time. Consider how he uses that backdrop – it suggests a world beyond the immediate scene, and those dueling figures might echo the themes within Boccaccio's tales, like conflict or competition. Editor: It adds to the chaotic energy. Look at the figures: the textures created by the linework evoke rich fabrics and elaborate gestures. The scene has an old engraving feel like something I would find within an antique collection or personal sketchbook. What I love is how suggestive it all is; leaving you, as the viewer, space to interpret the narrative. What story do you think this depicts from the Decameron? Curator: Identifying a precise tale can be tricky. However, consider that the "Decameron" delves into themes of love, deception, wit, and fortune, all set against the backdrop of the Black Death. De Hooghe likely selected elements that capture these broader themes, rather than illustrating one specific narrative. I see repeated visual ideas representing personal values across cultures throughout his era. Editor: I find myself wanting to rewrite the dialogues of the people we see within this artwork and it reminds me how we continuously remake and remold history itself! Is there a cultural takeaway we can glean here? Curator: The artwork demonstrates a timeless interest in tales exploring fundamental aspects of being human that has remained popular throughout history and across different forms of art. De Hooghe is showing how culture creates art that shapes the viewer's cultural background. Editor: The beautiful cyclical interpretation brings a complete yet open conclusion to this artwork! Thank you for joining me.