Rokende en etende mannen 1690

This etching by Jacobus Harrewijn, made around the turn of the 18th century, depicts two men indulging in earthly pleasures, labeled with the inscription ‘De Smaak’, meaning ‘The Taste’. The act of smoking, though seemingly simple, is rich with symbolism. Here, it represents not merely physical taste but a broader sensory indulgence. Consider the shared pipe or cup, a motif echoing through time—recall the shared chalices in depictions of the Last Supper, symbolizing communion and shared experience. Yet, here, the communion is of a decidedly earthly nature. Observe how the smoke rises, ephemeral and fleeting, much like life itself. This recalls the ‘vanitas’ tradition, where such transient symbols remind us of life's brevity. The act of sharing, of partaking in these sensory experiences together, touches on deep psychological undercurrents. This image taps into the collective memory of shared human experiences, engaging viewers on a profound level. The symbols present here weave a complex tapestry of meaning. From religious communion, to moral lessons, to earthly indulgence, such symbols recur, reborn in different contexts.