Allegory of Asia, from the Four Continents 1660 - 1700

This allegorical drawing, "Allegory of Asia", depicts a female figure seated on a pedestal, holding a vase. Behind her, a camel is adorned with a lavishly decorated harness. The scene is framed by elaborate ornamentation, including an ornate, multi-tiered structure that may represent an Asian pagoda. Created by Godfried Maes between 1660 and 1700, the work exemplifies the Baroque style's characteristic drama and theatricality. The drawing's delicate lines and intricate details bring to life the artist's vision of the continent of Asia as a realm of exotic beauty and grandeur.