Allegory of Africa, from the Four Continents 1580 - 1600

Adriaen Collaert’s “Allegory of Africa, from the Four Continents” (1580-1600) is an engraving that portrays Africa as a woman riding a crocodile through a landscape filled with exotic animals, reflecting the European perception of the continent during the Age of Exploration. The use of allegorical figures and the depiction of Africa's natural wonders, such as the pyramids and the crocodile, were common themes in European art of this period, showcasing the fascination with the unknown. The print is a fine example of Collaert's skill in depicting human and animal forms, showcasing the detail and the realism of his work.