Study for the Sine Baccho et Cerere Friget Venus (recto); Family of Darius before Alexander (verso) n.d.

Jacob Jordaens made this drawing, "Study for the Sine Baccho et Cerere Friget Venus," with pen and brown ink in the 17th century. Jordaens was a leading artist in Flanders, now Belgium, during a time when the Catholic Church was a powerful force. He often painted mythological and religious scenes, but with a twist. Look at the figures of Venus, Bacchus, and Ceres, surrounded by other figures and animals. The Latin title translates to "Without Bacchus and Ceres, Venus Freezes." It references a quote from the Roman playwright Terence who meant that love needs food and wine to thrive. In Jordaens’s interpretation, we see a critique of the overindulgence of the wealthy class, as well as the ideals of love, pleasure, and wealth in a changing society. The imagery suggests a world where traditional values are questioned. To understand Jordaens fully, we need to consider the social and political structures of his time. Research into Flemish culture, religious beliefs, and the artist's biography will give us a richer understanding of the work.