Pepin,Duke of Brabant, with His Daughter, Ste. Begghe c. 17th century

Editor: This engraving by Frans van der Steen depicts Pepin, Duke of Brabant, with his daughter, Ste. Begghe. The contrast between the softness of Ste. Begghe and the Duke's stern expression is striking. What do you make of this pairing? Curator: Notice how the artist has chosen to represent them. Begghe is adorned with pearls, symbols of purity and tears, yet Pepin wears furs, a symbol of authority, but perhaps also of a primal connection to the land. Consider what those materials convey about societal expectations. Editor: So the symbolism in their clothing tells a story of their roles and status? Curator: Precisely! The visual language of dress speaks volumes about their place in the world and the values associated with each. What might the differing textures evoke? Editor: I see how the artist used symbols to give insight into their identity, it really adds another layer to the portrait. Curator: Indeed, exploring such visual motifs provides a deeper understanding of cultural memory.