Werkplaats met mannen die spiegels polijsten 1747

This print, made in 1747 by Frans de Bakker, offers a glimpse into a workshop where men are polishing mirrors. The mirror itself – a symbol of self-reflection and truth – takes center stage. Consider the evolution of the mirror. From Narcissus gazing into the pond, captivated by his reflection, to the Roman use of polished metal, and here, to the 18th-century glass mirror, the allure remains. Mirrors capture not just physical likeness but also the subconscious desires and fears we project onto them. The act of polishing, seen here, is akin to refining the self. The men’s labor to create a flawless surface reminds us of our constant striving for clarity, seeking to understand our place in the world, a quest as old as humanity. This pursuit is not linear but cyclical, with each era finding new ways to reflect on its own image.