Manier om een kwartelfluit te hanteren Possibly 1786

This delicate drawing from 1786 by Jan Brandes captures the subtle art of holding a quail pipe. Observe the hands—they are not merely holding an instrument but are engaged in a dialogue with it. The gesture of the hands, cradling the small pipe, reminds us of similar depictions throughout history, such as offerings to deities, the cupping of hands in prayer, or the presentation of gifts to royalty. The hands are a conduit, connecting the physical act of playing music with deeper emotional and psychological realms. The artist's initials on the thumb serve as a personal mark, infusing the image with the artist's identity. It's a visual echo that resonates across time. The drawing’s power lies in its capacity to engage our subconscious, evoking a sense of harmony and a connection to the cultural memory of musical expression. This small drawing is a testament to the enduring power of symbols, continually resurfacing and evolving across different eras.