The Tanner
Author: Luiken, Jan, 1649-1712
Image Title: The Tanner
Scripture Reference:
- Acts 10 (further images / scripture text)
Description: Outside, under a tree, the tanner scrapes the animal hide with a two-handled knife. A second tanner works behind him in a work shed; on a platform in the canal, a third tanner washes tanned leather by treading on it with his bare feet. The Dutch artist and poet Jan Luiken (1649-1712) was responsible for drawing this emblem and for creating the motto and poem that follow. Jan Luiken and/or his son Casper Luiken (1672-1708) were responsible for its etching. The attendant scripture text is Acts 10:1-6.
Motto:
Of what use is the slavery,
As it is best forgotten.
Poem:
Although the hide is not good to eat,
It’s not therefore thrown away as useless:
All is made useful through diligence
Except for the large profit of the souls;
That is allowed to scatter and be destroyed
Like rags, for which one cares nothing.
(Translation by Josephine V. Brown, with editorial assistance from William G. Stryker)
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