Allegory of Rout and Pillage 1515 - 1525

This roundel, Allegory of Rout and Pillage, was made by Dirck Vellert in the 16th century, using vitreous paint and silver stain on glass. The process of creating such an image involved layers of work. First, the glass would have been carefully selected and cut into shape. Then, the design was meticulously painted onto the surface using vitreous enamel. The silver stain was used to create the striking yellow. Finally, the piece was fired in a kiln, permanently fusing the paint to the glass. The level of detail suggests a highly skilled artisan. The image’s narrative is one of social upheaval, with looters ransacking homes against a backdrop of burning buildings. Vellert’s choice of medium elevates this scene of everyday life to the realm of high art. Understanding the materials, the making process, and the cultural context allows us to fully appreciate the artistic skill and social commentary embedded in this object, challenging the boundaries between craft and fine art.