Jongeman tussen Waarheid en Bedrog 1677

Pieter van Schuppen created this engraving, “Jongeman tussen Waarheid en Bedrog”, which translates to “Young Man between Truth and Deceit.” Produced in 1677, the artwork reflects the 17th-century Dutch Republic's focus on moral and philosophical themes. The image depicts a young man caught between two allegorical figures: Truth, armed with a sword and shield, and Deceit, who wears a mask. This juxtaposition embodies the era's preoccupation with virtue and vice, themes that were deeply embedded in the social and cultural fabric of the time. The young man’s position between these figures brings forward questions of identity and choice. Does he yield to the apparent ease of deception or pursue the often challenging path of truth? Consider how the artist uses visual language—the armor of Truth versus the mask of Deceit—to communicate these contrasting ideals. It serves as a potent reminder of the decisions we face and the consequences they carry. The piece invites us to reflect on our own choices, and on the values that guide us.