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The Threatened Swan, c.1650. Creator: Jan Asselijin
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The Threatened Swan, c.1650. Creator: Jan Asselijin
The Threatened Swan, c.1650. Interpreted later as an Allegory on Johan de Witt. With its wings stretched and its neck poised, the swan protects her eggs against a dog swimming nearby. Showing the scene from a low angle emphasises the bird's power. The inscriptions - De Viand van de Staat (the enemy of the state), De Raad-Pensionaris (the grand pensionary), Holland - are a later addition and have a political message. The white swan was thought to symbolize the Dutch statesman Johan de Witt (assassinated in 1672) protecting the country from its enemies
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Aggression Aggressive Agression Animal Home Aquatic Bird Asselijin Jan Asselijn Jan Asselyn Jan Beak Birds Nest Dutch Golden Age Eggs Esselin Jan Feather Feathers Gender Jan Asselijin Jan Asselijn Jan Asselyn Jan Esselin Nest Protect Protected Protection Protective Swan Water Bird Waterbird Wings Golden Age
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EDITORS COMMENTS
The Threatened Swan," a captivating oil painting by Jan Asselijn from the 17th century, presents a powerful and poignant allegory of protection and resistance. The painting depicts a swan in the midst of her nest, her wings outstretched and neck poised, as she defends her eggs from a menacing dog swimming nearby. The low angle perspective employed by Asselijn emphasizes the swan's strength and determination, as well as the vulnerability of her eggs and the importance of her protective role. Although originally created as a simple representation of nature, this artwork later gained political significance when the inscriptions "De Viand van de Staat" (the enemy of the state), "De Raad-Pensionaris" (the grand pensionary), and "Holland" were added. This interpretation of the painting as an allegory for Dutch statesman Johan de Witt emerged during the late 17th century, as de Witt was a prominent figure in Dutch politics and a key player in the Dutch Golden Age. The white swan came to symbolize de Witt's unwavering protection of the Dutch states against their enemies, making this painting a poignant reminder of the courage and resilience of the Dutch during a time of great aggression and conflict. The painting's rich colors and intricate details bring the scene to life, showcasing Asselijn's mastery of oil painting techniques. The swan's graceful form and the rippling water add to the overall sense of tranquility and harmony, making "The Threatened Swan" a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences and inspire awe. This painting, with its powerful allegorical meaning and stunning visual appeal, is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Dutch Golden Age and the rich artistic heritage of Europe. The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is proud to house this important work, which continues to be a source of inspiration and a reminder of the power of art to convey complex ideas and emotions.
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