Mei 1545 - 1608

Pieter van der Borcht I created this engraving titled "Mei" sometime between 1545 and 1608. During this time the Netherlands was undergoing significant social and religious change, navigating the rise of Protestantism and the tensions with Spanish rule. Van der Borcht's work captures an intimate glimpse into the leisure activities of the privileged classes. The composition brims with figures engaged in various pursuits, from dining and music to games and intimate conversations, reflecting the social norms and gendered expectations of the time. What stories do we imagine unfolding amongst the different groupings depicted here? Do these scenes offer an authentic view into the lives of the Dutch elite, or are they idealized portrayals of the ruling class? As you consider this work, reflect on the ways class and leisure intersect, shaping individual experiences and societal structures. "Mei" invites us to consider not only the historical context of its creation but also its enduring relevance to contemporary discussions about privilege, representation, and social dynamics.