De wereld 1745

Jeremias Gottlob Rugendas's 1745 engraving, *De wereld*, depicts a complex allegory of the world. The central figure, a bearded man holding a lantern, sits atop the globe, symbolizing humanity's search for truth and knowledge. Surrounding him are figures representing various aspects of human life: a skeletal figure with a scythe representing death, an angel with a compass representing order, and figures with various attributes representing different virtues. The composition is framed by elaborate, swirling decorative elements that contribute to the overall sense of mystery and grandeur. This print is a prime example of the Baroque style, characterized by its dramatic use of light and shadow, dynamic composition, and emphasis on allegory. The artwork is currently housed in the Rijksmuseum.