April 1652 - 1711

This print, "April," was made by an anonymous artist, and is currently held at the Rijksmuseum. "April" evokes the opulence and the intricate social rituals of the 18th century. The image presents a woman of leisure, elegantly dressed, accompanied by a hunting dog, and holding a spear. This is a period when aristocratic identity was expressed through elaborate displays of wealth and status. While seemingly a benign representation of springtime and the leisure activities of the elite, it's worth questioning how it mirrors societal power structures. Who had access to such leisure, and whose labor sustained this lifestyle? The inclusion of the hunting dog might symbolize loyalty and the historical association between aristocracy and hunting rights, reinforcing class divisions. The poem beneath the image alludes to renewal and happiness in hunting, idealizing a life far removed from the realities of most people. The artist's choices invite us to reflect on the cultural values and the social hierarchies of the era. It prompts a consideration of how such images played a role in shaping perceptions and normalizing privilege.