Twee honden jagen op een stier before 1617

"Twee honden jagen op een stier," or "Two Dogs Hunting a Bull," is an undated ornamental design by Theodor Bang, created sometime in the 17th century. During this period, ornamental prints were very popular. They were not regarded as high art, but they were incredibly useful. Artisans would use prints like this as guides to create luxury items, and decorate furniture. The conflict between the dogs and the bull is framed by stylized floral ornaments. It’s as if nature and culture are in a constant state of tension, where animals and plants are caught in a dance of dominance. The print encapsulates the era’s hierarchical view of the natural world, but I wonder, too, about the emotional experience of living in a world where nature always must be put into order. How did that affect their personal sense of freedom, creativity, and innovation? Bang's image reveals a deep, complicated relationship with the world around us, an experience not so different from our own.