Franse jonkers en raadsheer 1576 - 1596

This fragmentary print, "Franse jonkers en raadsheer," was made by Abraham de Bruyn in the late 16th century. It offers us a glimpse into the social dynamics of the time through its depiction of French noblemen and a councilor. De Bruyn, working in a period marked by religious and political upheaval in the Netherlands, uses visual codes to convey status and power. The noblemen on horseback, with their elaborate attire, stand in contrast to the more modestly dressed councilor, reflecting the hierarchical social structure. This work was made during the protestant reformation. The politics of imagery were especially important during this time of religious conflict as the printing press gave the common people access to art. To fully understand this print, we might turn to period costume guides, social histories of the Netherlands, and records of civic life to uncover the nuances of class, status, and political affiliation. By situating this artwork within its original context, we begin to understand the social conditions that shaped its production and the ways in which art actively participated in the discourse of its time.