Vaandrig 1580 - 1584

Curator: Standing before us is a detailed drawing titled "Vaandrig," created by Hendrick Goltzius between 1580 and 1584. It is held here at the Rijksmuseum. What strikes you about this particular piece? Editor: Immediately, the figure exudes confidence, almost arrogance. His posture, that flamboyant clothing, even the way he casually drapes the flag over his shoulder. It screams of privilege and status. Curator: It is indeed a study in status. The "vaandrig," or ensign, was a junior officer responsible for carrying the company's flag. This role, while significant, was often held by younger nobles or those seeking to climb the military or social ladder. Goltzius, quite deliberately, used these figures in order to explore contemporary debates around Dutch nationalism and identity. Editor: So the flag isn't just an accessory; it is actually part of his identity. Thinking symbolically, it's interesting how he bears it so nonchalantly, which feels either respectful, implying effortless power, or rather arrogant, and suggestive of ownership? Curator: An interesting contrast. The text beneath certainly alludes to themes of courtship, power dynamics and personal freedom within the bounds of courtly love, possibly even referencing specific societal figures. What do you take from that? Editor: Well, considering it would have originally circulated amongst print collectors and art lovers, I wonder how important the idea of image making itself would have been to viewers at the time? It is easy for us to see the politics of symbolism here, the arrogance of power or nascent Dutch pride, but that final couplet reads also as a motto: in order to "wet them" we must make art (de wet them). Perhaps it has wider-reaching ambitions. Curator: Precisely. The image speaks not just of military might or aristocratic bearing, but about broader societal values too. Editor: Right, now that I see it, I also see those aspirations Goltzius maybe implies. Fascinating how a simple drawing can carry so many layers. Curator: A testament to Goltzius' artistry and the rich visual language of the period, and the questions this era left behind that linger in our interpretation of Dutch society now.