Luiheid (Acedia) 1619 - 1675

Lucas Vorsterman the Elder created this engraving, Luiheid, meaning "Acedia," sometime in the 17th century. Acedia, or spiritual sloth, was considered one of the eight deadly sins during this period in the Netherlands. Vorsterman's image speaks to the cultural anxieties around idleness and the virtues of hard work that were prevalent at the time. We see a woman slumped at a table, lost in sleep, embodying a rejection of diligence. The print subtly critiques the social and economic shifts of the era, where emerging capitalism placed a high value on productivity. To truly understand this work, one might explore period literature, sermons, and economic treatises, as well as consult with religious experts. This engraving serves as a fascinating lens through which we can examine the values and anxieties of a society in transition.