JAN TOOROP (1858-1928) ARNHEM. 1900. 351/2x263/4 inches. Lankhout & Co., The Haag. Condition B+: restored losses in bottom left margin; repaired tears and creases in margins and image. As with all of Toorop's posters for rather mundane, everyday items this image for an insurance company is strange and sophisticated. The image is a symbolic evocation of protection. The woman on her knees, the folds of her dress spectacularly rendered, is being protected by the standing figure. An hour glass intimates the passing of time, and the image is embellished by traces of blue (in the butterflies which may represent the beauties of the world that await those who are properly insured, and the sashes on the two women's gowns). The extraordinary typography, which completely surrounds the figures, is another means of expressing the all-encompassing protection, which this company can provide. Dutch Poster 103.
