Snuivende, drinkende en rokende mannen 1659 - 1740

This is Jan van der Bruggen’s “Snuivende, drinkende en rokende mannen”, made sometime in the late 17th to early 18th century. Notice the composition, a triangular arrangement of three figures dominates the scene, rendered in stark contrasts of light and shadow. The artist uses etching to create texture, especially in the rough faces and worn clothing. Van der Bruggen utilizes the materiality of the ink to explore themes of degradation and excess, reflecting a fascination with the grotesque. He draws from the tradition of physiognomy, where physical features reveal inner character, in this instance, an implied commentary on moral decay through its distorted portrayals. The print’s crude lines and unbalanced composition are a visual semiotic system, symbolizing chaos. By manipulating the medium, Van der Bruggen challenges classical notions of beauty and order, inviting us to reflect on the human condition and the transient nature of pleasure. The artwork’s lasting impact lies in its ability to unsettle viewers, encouraging an ongoing dialogue between art and its audience.