An artwork on Galleree from Rijksmuseum.
About the artwork
The Threatened Swan, Jan Asselijn, c. 1650h 144cm × w 171cm
Jan Asselijn
oil on canvas
In the stillness of a sun-kissed pond, a scene unfolds, painted by nature itself. A majestic swan, with wings arched elegantly and neck held high, stands as a fierce guardian over her precious eggs. The water glistens gently, reflecting the golden light of the day, as the swan's silhouette cuts a striking figure against the tranquil backdrop.
Beneath the surface, the shimmering ripples betray the presence of a curious dog, paddling through the water, blissfully unaware of the tempest of instinct that now flows through the swan. From this low, intimate angle, we witness her poise and strength—a powerful protector made delicate by the vulnerability of her nest. Each feather glistens as if woven from threads of resolve, the essence of motherhood hovering protectively over her tiny charges.
Yet, this serene tableau is layered with deeper meanings. As our gaze lingers, we notice inscriptions etched nearby—words that breathe with history and weight. These were not part of nature’s design but rather a later addition, breathing life into the moment with a pulse of political fervor. They whisper tales of Johan de Witt, a formidable leader in Dutch politics, who stood resolute against the tumult of enemies that threatened his realm.
This painting, bold in its imagery, does more than capture a moment in time. It serves as a testament to vigilance, drawing parallels between the peril of the natural world and the struggles faced in the political arena. In the eyes of the swan glimmers a fierce spirit that resonates through history—a reminder that protection, be it of life or of a nation, often comes at a profound cost.
About the artist
The Rijksmuseum is the national museum of the Netherlands. We tell the story of 800 years of Dutch history, from 1200 to now. We showcase over 8,000 works of art, including masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh. In addition, we organize several exhibitions per year from our own collection and with (inter) national loans. In the Rijksmuseum you get to know the greatest works of art down to the smallest details.The artwork posted on this site is through the museum's public domain/CC0 data and does not imply endorsement.
Address: Museumstraat 1, Amsterdam, Netherlands
The best place to view Rijksmuseum‘s artwork is on Galleree. Hear the story behind this work, interact with the image, discuss with people, curate your own playlists, and discover so much more from great artists and institutions alike.