Zwijnenjacht 1570 - 1612

This is Marcus Gheeraerts' 'Zwijnenjacht,' a 39 by 93 mm artwork, held at the Rijksmuseum. Made during a period of significant social stratification, this print offers a glimpse into the culture of hunting as a pastime exclusive to the aristocracy. The image depicts a chaotic scene, a wild boar hunt teeming with dogs, boars, and a hunter, spear in hand, giving chase. Consider the historical context: hunting was a privilege, a display of power and dominance. The wild boar, a symbol of untamed nature, becomes a stand-in here for the lower classes, who were often seen as something to be controlled. This imagery speaks volumes about the social hierarchy of the time. How might those excluded from such displays of power have felt when viewing this artwork? How does the artist portray the relationship between humans and animals, and what does that say about the prevailing attitudes towards nature and control? This print is more than just a hunting scene, it's a reflection of societal power structures, rendered in miniature.