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Numskull Collection

"Numskull: A Journey Through the Absurdity of Life" Step into a world where age knows no boundaries, as an old and young man sit together at a table


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"Numskull: A Journey Through the Absurdity of Life" Step into a world where age knows no boundaries, as an old and young man sit together at a table, engrossed in their own peculiarities. Johann Liss's masterpiece from the 17th century captures the essence of human folly. In this whimsical realm, jesters reign supreme. Pieter Jansz. Quast's print showcases a jester with a violin, his music resonating through the air like laughter itself. Frederik de Wit adds depth to this portrayal with intricate details that bring the scene to life. Amongst these characters is a manke man, whose wooden leg and arm in a sling tell tales of misfortune and resilience. With a knife in hand and donning a beret, he embodies both vulnerability and strength. But it doesn't end there – enter the vomiting man. Quast and de Wit collaborate once again to depict an individual who seems perpetually caught between indulgence and regret. A bucket-carrying fool joins our cast next – perhaps tasked with cleaning up after all these absurd antics or simply adding another layer of eccentricity to this carnival-like atmosphere. And then we have him – the long-haired man with snottebel (a Dutch term for booger). His unkempt appearance only enhances his role as an embodiment of chaos amidst orderliness. Dancing fools take center stage too; their movements exude freedom from societal constraints while simultaneously celebrating life's unpredictable rhythms. Quast's brush strokes capture their energy effortlessly. Another character emerges wielding foolishness like armor against conformity. Armed not just physically but also mentally, he challenges conventional wisdom without hesitation or fear. Meanwhile, one curious soul gazes out from behind an owl perched on his window ledge. Anonymous yet captivatingly mysterious, this figure reminds us that perception can be deceiving - each believes his owl to be a falcon. Finally, we find ourselves at the Zottenkermis fair.