Allegorie op de V.O.C. 1723

Jacob Folkema’s 1723 engraving, *Allegorie op de V.O.C.*, is a complex allegory representing the Dutch East India Company (V.O.C.). A figure holding a scale and a globe sits on a throne with the coat of arms of Amsterdam in the background, symbolizing the power and influence of the company. Below, two figures represent the trade the company facilitated. The left figure, holding a paddle, represents the Dutch trading with the East Indies, while the figure on the right holds a trident, symbolizing the power of the Dutch navy. The etching’s small size, measuring 126mm by 78mm, contributes to the detail and intricacy of the piece. This artwork is now housed in the Rijksmuseum.