Twee beren, twee wolven en twee vossen c. 1654 - 1670

Richard Gaywood created this print of two bears, two wolves, and two foxes sometime between 1630 and 1680. The image reflects the cultural fascination with nature during the 17th century, a period marked by exploration and scientific inquiry. During this time, animals were often used as symbols in art and literature. The choice of these particular animals might speak to the social dynamics of the time: the bear representing strength, the wolf cunning, and the fox, slyness. The composition, with the animals arranged in a seemingly confrontational manner, could reflect contemporary social hierarchies and power struggles. Notice the emotional tension Gaywood creates through the animals' postures and expressions; what stories might they tell? Consider how the artist's depiction of these animals challenges or reinforces societal views on nature and human's relationship to it. How do our contemporary views of these animals differ?