The Big Fish Eat the Little Fish

Jan Thiel (publisher)

Associated Names
Jan Tiel

Publisher, Netherlandish, active late 16th century

Pieter Bruegel the Elder

Artist After, Netherlandish, c. 1525/1530 - 1569

This is a drawing featuring various activities with giant fish and smaller human-like figures interacting. The drawing is filled with intricate details showcasing a chaotic interaction where the larger fish dominate the scene, being handled, dissected, and surrounded by these creatures. The composition is dense, filled with dynamic movements and various groups engaged in different tasks, closely attending to the oversized fish. The entirety is framed by text panels that provide a narrative or commentary. The overall imagery suggests an allegorical interpretation, possibly critiquing or depicting moral or social themes. The attention to detail and the complex interplay between figures and fish indicate an intention to convey more profound stories or messages through visual metaphor.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    engraving

  • Credit Line

    Rosenwald Collection

  • Accession Number

    1964.8.408

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    New Hollstein, no. 31, Copy


Artwork history & notes

Exhibition History

1965

  • Drolleries and Demons: Six Centuries of 'Fantastic' Prints, IBM Gallery, New York, NY, 1965, no. 15.

2000

  • The Fantastic in Renaissance Prints and Drawings, National Gallery of Art, Washington, 2000.

Bibliography

1908

  • Bastelaer, Rene van. Les estampes de Peter Bruegel l'ancien. Brussels: G. van Oest et Cie, 1908.

1993

  • The New Hollstein Dutch & Flemish Etchings, Engravings and Woodcuts, 1450-1700. (Pieter Bruegel, Nadine Orenstein author). Rotterdam: Sound & Vision Interactive, 1996-, no. 31, copy.

Wikidata ID

Q65512406

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