De spiegel der deugd 1589 - 1594

Cornelis Ketel created "De spiegel der deugd," a drawing with a height of 515 mm and a width of 376 mm, using pen and brush in grey. The composition is dominated by a framed allegorical scene. Note how Ketel's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and drama, spotlighting the figures. The central figure of virtue stands triumphant over a lion, symbolizing the conquest of base instincts. Figures flank the central scene. The architectural frame isn't merely a border. It's an integral part of the artwork, adorned with reclining figures and decorative motifs. The symmetry, especially in the architectural elements, offers a sense of order and classical balance, yet the dynamic poses of the figures disrupt this harmony, creating a tension which embodies the struggle between virtue and vice. The drawing invites ongoing interpretation, reflecting cultural values and philosophical ideas. The work challenges fixed meanings, encouraging us to reflect on the values we uphold and the structures that shape our understanding of morality.