Magere keuken 1597 - 1649

Hans Liefrinck created this engraving, "Magere keuken," or "Lean Kitchen," in the mid-16th century, a period marked by religious upheaval and social change. The print is a commentary on the contrast between the austere diets of the poor and the extravagant feasts of the wealthy, reflecting the stark class divisions of the time. Liefrinck uses allegory to address these themes, depicting a kitchen scene where skeletal figures prepare a meager meal, while the wealthy indulge in gluttony. The artist seems to question the ethics of excess amidst scarcity, subtly critiquing the social norms of the period. The setting is both a stage for social critique and a mirror reflecting the everyday lives of people in an era defined by economic disparity. The emotional resonance of the work lies in its stark portrayal of inequality, inviting us to reflect on the enduring nature of these issues. "Magere keuken" remains a powerful reminder of the human cost of social imbalance and the importance of empathy.