Amerika c. 1585 - 1590

Philips Galle’s engraving “Amerika” from c. 1585-1590, portrays the continent as a nude, fierce woman wielding a spear and holding a severed head. This print is part of a series of engravings representing the four continents. The imagery is reminiscent of the “Four Continents” motif prevalent in Renaissance art, where continents are personified and depicted as powerful, imposing figures. This artwork, now housed at the Rijksmuseum, reflects the European perception of the Americas at the time, highlighting its indigenous populations and their perceived savagery. The artwork also depicts a parrot, an axe, and a quiver of arrows, symbolizing the abundance and wildness of the New World.