Netherlandish Proverbs

Netherlandish Proverbs (Dutch: Nederlandse Spreekwoorden) is a world-renowned painting by Pieter Bruegel the Elder, created in 1559. It illustrates over 100 proverbs and idioms that were common in 16th-century Flemish society.

The artist composed a chaotic yet structured scene, where every figure and detail carries meaning. Despite its humorous tone, the work contains a profound social philosophy. It not only entertains but also invites reflection on human behavior within society.

The painting portrays everyday village life by the seaside. On the left, a globe hangs upside down on a house wall, symbolizing a world turned upside down, where people act foolishly and chase meaningless earthly concerns. Below the center, a woman in a red dress is seen throwing a blue cloak over her husband, a symbol of marital infidelity. In the very center, a devil sits beneath a blue canopy, seemingly governing this twisted world.

Bruegel’s work reflects the beliefs of his time - that the world is ruled by sin, evil, and human folly.

Netherlandish Proverbs is a brilliant example of Northern Renaissance art, where folklore, morality, and visual storytelling come together in a rich allegorical tapestry.

P.S. Image attribution: Pieter Brueghel the Elder, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons