The Wisdom of Fools

Workshop of Hendrick Goltzius, after Karel van Mander I

National Gallery of Art

The image displays four individuals seated together, with only their upper bodies primarily visible. The figures are grouped closely, with two people leaning forward while another sits back slightly, appearing engaged with the rest. The individual in the center right is wearing a headpiece and glasses, and his facial features are exaggerated with a prominent nose and open mouth. Next to him, another person wears a similar headcover and is leaning in, grasping a stick or small animal. A third figure appears to be cradling a child-like figure at the center of the group. The fourth figure on the left holds an owl. All are dressed in historical or fantastical garments with draped fabric and some ornamental headwear. In the background, there are trees with dense foliage, alongside what appears to be a body of water.