4702 Jacob Cats (1577–1660), Adriaen Pietersz. van de Venne (1589–1662), Jan Swelinck – The Butterfly in the Sun / Amor elegantiae pater – Engraving (17th Century)
This emblem from the series Kunst voor Kracht presents a butterfly flying above a burial shroud beneath the radiant sun. The Latin motto “Amor elegantiae pater” (“Love is the father of elegance”) and the Dutch verses meditate on transformation and transcendence. The butterfly, emerging from the darkness of its cocoon, symbolizes the soul's release from the body and the elevation of the spirit through love, grace, and beauty. Bathed in sunlight, the insect’s flight suggests renewal, resurrection, or even the refinement of character through aesthetic or moral awakening.
Jacob Cats, a moralist and poet of the Dutch Golden Age, often used nature metaphors to frame spiritual and ethical development. In this emblem, the imagery aligns with Christian-Neoplatonic themes of purification and light. Adriaen van de Venne illustrated the allegory with lyrical subtlety, while Jan Swelinck’s engraving rendered it with clarity and symbolic focus.
Artist or Maker:
Jacob Cats, Adriaen Pietersz. van de Venne, Jan Swelinck
Dimensions:
22 cm x 16.5 cm
Medium:
Engraving
Date:
17th Century
Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.
| Estimate | 200 - 300 SEK |
| Buyers Premium (inc. VAT) | 25% |
| Hammer Fee (inc. VAT) | 6 SEK |
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