Artist: Jan Luyken (Dutch, 1649 – 1712)
Title: Frogs, The Second Plague of Egypt
Medium: Antique engraving on laid paper.
Publisher: Frans Houtteyn
Reference: Hollstein / Dutch and Flemish etchings, engravings and woodcuts c.1450-1700 ; Luyken 1905 / Het Werk van Jan en Caspar Luyken.
Dimensions: Sight size: 12 7/8 x 17 3/8 inches.
Framed Dimensions: Approximately 22 x 26 inches.
Framing: This piece has been professionally matted and framed using all new materials.
The second plague of Egypt was a plague of frogs, which swarmed the land and invaded the Egyptians’ homes, bedrooms, and food. According to the biblical account, Pharaoh asked Moses to pray for the frogs to be removed, promising to let the Israelites go if the plague was lifted. However, after God removed the frogs, Pharaoh went back on his promise.
Jan Luyken (1649–1712) is a well listed artist. He was a prolific Dutch poet, illustrator, and engraver, famous for his detailed, spiritually-focused prints illustrating trades, religious persecution, and mystical themes. after a youthful period of erotic poetry led to a profound conversion to Pietistic Anabaptist Christianity, he became a major figure in Dutch art and literature known for detailed realism.