Man met maatstok 1785 - 1855

Pieter Kikkert’s etching presents us with a man and his measuring stick, a symbol not merely of physical dimension, but of societal order. The stick, juxtaposed against the pointing hand, evokes a timeless quest for direction and purpose. Consider the pointing gesture itself. It transcends mere indication; it is an act of asserting control, of delineating boundaries, and of guiding others. This motif echoes through antiquity, from classical orators directing the masses to Renaissance depictions of John the Baptist pointing to the divine. Yet, the meaning morphs with time. The 'index finger' once a symbol of divine guidance, now also bears the weight of accusation or command. In psychoanalytic terms, it speaks to our primal need for authority and guidance, reflecting a collective yearning for meaning and direction in an often chaotic world. Kikkert’s work is a testament to the enduring power of symbols that have resurfaced through the ages, shaped by our evolving cultural and emotional landscapes.