V Ambitiosa Temeritas 1614

Curator: This engraving, "V Ambitiosa Temeritas," created by Roemer Visscher in 1614, is currently housed in the Rijksmuseum. Editor: The phrase itself – Ambitious Temerity. It's darkly comical, really. You have a man, all self-importance, trying to crown a very unimpressed lion. The lion’s definitely thinking this isn't going to end well. Curator: Indeed. The image is an allegory, steeped in symbolism. Visscher seems to be warning against reckless ambition. Notice how the man is focused entirely on placing the crown, oblivious to the very obvious danger he’s in. Editor: Right! Like some clueless courtier believing he’s somehow taming power by pandering to it. The watery ground feels unstable too, a world of trouble ready to open up! I get the feeling this cautionary tale applies as much to ourselves now as it did in 1614. Curator: The choice of a lion is crucial, embodying royalty and raw power, traditionally seen as an ambivalent symbol. To attempt to "crown" such a creature suggests both audacity and foolishness, echoing themes that are central to baroque art as a whole. The man thinks that such great masters may greet him, and consider his glory among other sycophants, or so claims the translated text underneath the scene, where his ignorance can shine like gold to a flame. Editor: Precisely, there’s an arrogance involved. He really thinks he's achieved something meaningful, that this charade grants him some measure of control, despite evidence screaming otherwise. Curator: The medium itself, engraving, allows for meticulous detail that enriches the symbolic complexity. Visscher masterfully captures textures and emotive elements even in miniature. Editor: You are completely right. I am now noticing how meticulously detailed the lions main is. The water flows and almost has a shine to it as well! Its funny, after a brief look, the artwork gives me one idea. A more careful observance reveals so many other elements! Curator: And so we have this enduring message— the risks of hubris, of being consumed by ambition, never fade, do they? Editor: Not in the least. Some images whisper, this one shouts. I will leave contemplating all this audacity.