Man met ontbloote schouder 1648 - 1678

Samuel van Hoogstraten created this etching of a bare-shouldered man sometime in the 17th century. It is an intriguing image, typical of its time, reflecting contemporary notions of art, the artist, and the cultural values of the Dutch Golden Age. Made in the Netherlands, this artwork emerges from a society undergoing significant transformation. The Dutch Republic was a burgeoning center of trade, science, and the arts. This cultural context influenced artistic production, fostering a market for art among a growing middle class. The institutions of art, such as guilds and academies, played a crucial role in shaping artistic styles and standards. Van Hoogstraten's work, with its technical skill, reflects the importance of academic training and adherence to established artistic conventions, while his choice of subject matter speaks to a broader interest in humanism, where the study of man was central. Historical sources and artist biographies help us understand the complex relationship between the artist, their work, and the society in which they lived.