Handelsetiket van John Sickenga e company c. 1681 - 1740

Editor: This is the "Handelsetiket van John Sickenga e company," a trade label by Isaac Vincentsz. van der Vinne, dating from around 1681 to 1740. It's rendered in ink using engraving, etching, and pen techniques. The little parrot in the middle has caught my eye; it seems an unusual image for what I’d expect on a trade label. How do you interpret its symbolism and purpose within this historical context? Curator: The parrot is certainly striking. Trade labels like this are fascinating because they offer a glimpse into the visual culture and commercial practices of the time. Consider the power of branding, even centuries ago. This label needed to be distinctive. A parrot, then, speaks to exotic goods, things sourced from far away, suggesting a sophisticated and global trade network. It invites the consumer to consider that what John Sickenga sells are not commonplace goods. What else strikes you about the design? Editor: The level of detail within such a small space is remarkable. And I suppose I didn’t immediately make the link between an exotic bird and exotic goods. What sort of customer might Sickenga have been trying to attract with this label? Curator: Exactly! The engraving technique itself denotes a level of craftsmanship. Now, who would be drawn to such detail and suggestion of quality? Likely, it targets an emerging merchant class and aristocratic buyers. These labels attached themselves to goods destined for particular consumers. We should consider them as powerful engines in shaping tastes and driving consumerism. Editor: It's fascinating how much can be gleaned from what seems like a simple trade label! It really puts a new perspective on the intersection of art, commerce, and social standing. Thanks! Curator: Indeed! Examining the art through the lens of social and commercial history really enriches our understanding.