De heer en de jood 1811 - 1867

This sketch, by Christiaan Wilhelmus Moorrees, depicts two men distinguished by their dress. The figure on the left, presumably "de heer"—the gentleman—sports a tall top hat and elaborate plaid suit, while the other man, "de jood"—the Jew—is more plainly attired. Consider the gentleman's gesture: his hand raised with a curled finger. It evokes a sense of superiority, reminiscent of the gestures used in Renaissance paintings to denote power and divine favor. But here, it takes on a different tone, laden with social commentary. The act of pointing, or gesturing, is ancient. Throughout history, we see figures depicted directing, accusing, and commanding. Think of the Roman emperors or even religious icons depicted in similar poses. The stark contrast in clothing and the gentleman's gesture are not merely observations of attire but potent symbols of social stratification and the complex, often fraught, relationship between communities, capturing an emotional tension that resonates even now.