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Al-Arm (oil on panel)
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Al-Arm (oil on panel)
6334999 Al-Arm (oil on panel) by Venne, Adriaen Pietersz. van de (1589-1662); 36.8x28.8 cm; Private Collection; (add.info.: This humorous, monochromatic representation of cripples attacking one another with their crutches is a characteristic example of the satirical representations of marginalized, low-life figures accompanied by moralizing inscriptions, which constitute the majority of Van de Vennes artistic output. Here, beneath the ragged jumble of figures with outstretched limbs and contorted faces, appears a banderol with the motto " Al-arm", one of Van de Vennes favorite inscriptions. As Peter Sutton has noted (loc. cit.), this inscription may be read in several ways, not only translating as the English " Alarm", the French " A l arme" (to arms), but also in Dutch, it may be understood as " All [are] poor".); Photo eChristies Images; Dutch, out of copyright
Media ID 23806700
© Christie's Images / Bridgeman Images
Alarm Beating Beggar Beggars Crutch Crutches Disability Disabled Grotesque Grotesques Impoverished Monochrome Motto Peasants Violent Walking Sticks Brawl Brawling Caricatures
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the essence of Adriaen Pietersz. van de Venne's satirical masterpiece, "Al-Arm". In this monochromatic oil painting on panel, we witness a chaotic scene where crippled individuals engage in a fierce clash using their crutches as weapons. Van de Venne was renowned for his portrayal of marginalized characters accompanied by moralizing inscriptions, and this artwork exemplifies his unique style. Beneath the tangled mess of contorted figures with outstretched limbs and twisted faces, we find a banderol displaying the artist's favorite motto, "Al-arm". This inscription holds multiple interpretations; it can be translated as "Alarm" in English or "A l'arme" (to arms) in French. However, in Dutch, it carries an additional meaning: "All [are] poor". This clever play on words adds depth to the artwork's social commentary. The composition is filled with grotesque and caricatured peasant figures forming a mob-like atmosphere. The violent confrontation depicted here showcases both physical disability and poverty among these beggars. Each character fights fiercely against one another while wielding their crutches or walking sticks as weapons. Van de Venne's use of monochrome adds to the dramatic impact of this baroque piece. The exaggerated features and intense expressions further emphasize the brawl unfolding before our eyes. This intriguing print from Bridgeman Images allows us to appreciate Van de Venne's artistic brilliance while contemplating themes such as conflict, violence, disability, poverty, and societal marginalization that are still relevant today.
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