De toverlantaarn (dl. 2) 1720

Jan de Ridder created this print, "De toverlantaarn (dl. 2)," in the late 17th or early 18th century, a period marked by significant social and economic shifts in the Dutch Republic. The print offers a satirical commentary on societal norms, playing with themes of perception and illusion. The scene depicts a magic lantern show, a popular form of entertainment at the time, which here serves as a metaphor for exposing human folly. Notice the varied reactions of the audience. De Ridder critiques the illusion by highlighting the ways individuals are taken in by deceptive appearances. The intersection of entertainment and moral instruction was typical of the era, however, De Ridder turns this on its head, prompting viewers to question what they see and to recognize the potential for deceit within social interactions. The artist seems to say: “Don’t believe everything you see”.