Zephyrus en Flora 1766

Curator: What a delightful engraving. This is Cornelis van Noorde's "Zephyrus en Flora," created in 1766. It resides here at the Rijksmuseum. Editor: It's a highly detailed print, giving off the air of a meticulously planned garden scene populated by classical figures. The material rendering alone is fascinating, that contrast of delicate line work and robust textures! Curator: Indeed. Van Noorde masterfully uses line to depict the textures of cloth, leaves and stone. We see Zephyrus, the West Wind, clasping Flora’s hand in a garden, classical figures brought to life using the techniques of engraving. What symbolism do you see? Editor: Well, Flora, goddess of flowers and spring, and Zephyrus are key. Their union signifies rebirth and growth. Even those chubby cherubs floating above contribute – one unfurling a banner. The garden itself can be interpreted as a cultivated paradise, made accessible and productive through human labour! Note the other workers. Curator: Good point. The presence of gardeners grounds the mythological aspect. The figures become metaphors, certainly, but also reflect the work of cultivating beauty. One sees themes central to the Dutch Republic: prosperity through industry, the marriage of art and nature... Editor: Precisely! Look closely: gardening implements lie discarded next to the cold frames – daily toil temporarily put aside in recognition of the mythological love between these two immortals! The relationship of man, tools, soil, and seasonal labor made into Art by van Noorde! Curator: Van Noorde elegantly uses this balance between allegory and everyday work to elevate not only his subjects, but the profession itself. There’s the enduring human impulse for control over the natural world... but the artwork doesn't fully take itself seriously. There’s still delight! Editor: True! I came in looking for technique and manufacturing, but am leaving contemplating symbols that express timeless desires and experiences about renewal, and labour’s partnership with divinity to make growth happen. Curator: Exactly! A rich interplay we have only just begun to discuss. Thank you.