Twee liefdesparen en een nar 1535 - 1599

Curator: Look at this curious print from the late 16th century titled “Twee liefdesparen en een nar,” or "Two Couples in Love with a Fool", made by an anonymous artist and residing here at the Rijksmuseum. What strikes you first? Editor: Melancholy, definitely melancholy. It’s all in the angles—the slightly downcast gazes, the slouching figures. Even the tree in the background seems to be drooping. The lines of the engraving emphasize this mood of subdued longing, wouldn't you say? Curator: It's funny you say that, because to me, there’s also a feeling of voyeurism in this tiny engraving. It's like peeking into a forbidden tryst, only the jester seems to know that we, the viewers, are watching, becoming knowing participants in some naughty rendezvous! Editor: Ah, the fool! He’s an important figure here, embodying folly itself and the folly of earthly love. Isn’t the pairing of lovers and fools a trope, reminding us of love's often ridiculous and irrational nature? His presence undermines any real sentiment. Curator: Perhaps... Or maybe he is merely offering a bit of wry commentary on human interaction. In his funny hat and knowing smile, the fool possesses something almost akin to the author's or the viewer’s privileged insight! Speaking of folly and humor, what do you notice about how our unknown artist has deployed all those repetitive stokes on their garb and poses? Editor: Well, he is cleverly emphasizing that fabric and wealth—it's almost theatrical. Maybe these lovers aren’t escaping the world at all; they’re displaying their worldliness for the viewer. Curator: You know, contemplating it now, there may well be several "fools" present in this little composition. One for each lover that fails to achieve that sought after state of ideal coupling. A lot for such a tiny world. I think that little universe might continue to spin away long after our visit ends! Editor: Agreed! This tiny universe speaks volumes. A small world holding a mirror to human love and longing, indeed.