REMBRANDT HARMENSZ. VAN RIJN (1606-1669)

In the circle of print lovers and collectors, the present work was long known as Eulenspiegel ('Owl-glass') after the protagonist of a popular folk-tale. The name of this notorious trickster was proverbial from the 16th century onwards, and used to denote someone with a wily nature. The term 'to play Eulenspiegel's flute' meant to talk rubbish or to take someone for a ride. The owl on the shepherd's shoulder makes reference to this, and acts as a symbol of the night. Ostensibly he is playing the flute, but in reality he is absorbed in less high-minded pursuits, as he furtively looks up the shepherdess's skirt. The herd of sheep and goats to the right take advantage of his distraction and fight to get at the water.