Michal helpt David ontsnappen 1710

Jan Goeree created this print, "Michal helping David escape," around the turn of the 18th century using etching. The composition is a dense, symmetrical arrangement of architectural and symbolic elements, all rendered in precise detail. Notice how Goeree uses line work to create texture and depth, evoking an atmosphere of controlled drama. The print layers classical motifs and biblical narrative through an intricate design. The upper register features a bear and a lion, symbols of power and threat, flanking a scene of escape. Below, a grotesque mask adds a sense of unease, balanced by musical instruments that hint at harmony. The architectural setting and symbolic objects suggest a complex interplay between divine intervention, human emotion, and the structures of power. The overall effect is one of intellectual tension. The symmetrical layout and detailed execution create a visually ordered space, yet the layering of contrasting elements introduces instability. Is Goeree suggesting that escape and deliverance can emerge even from environments defined by rigid social and political structures? Ultimately, the print challenges us to consider the dynamic between order and chaos, and the power of art to destabilize established meanings.