Thermometrum 1682 - 1730

Curator: This piece practically vibrates with the Baroque spirit. All this activity bursting out of a monochromatic scheme... tell me more? Editor: We are looking at an engraving, made with pen, of a conceptual design entitled *Thermometrum.* Created sometime between 1682 and 1730, Jacobus Harrewijn rendered a very interesting and fantastical... thermometer. Curator: A thermometer, eh? It seems less about measuring temperature and more about taking the pulse of the cosmos! I mean, look at the landscapes, the celestial maps interwoven. It's not just a tool; it's a symbolic journey, almost alchemical in its intent. Editor: Yes, I think "allegory" hits the nail on the head. The two halves of the design operate on slightly different registers—there is definitely a relationship at play between architectural form, figures situated both inside and out of temples or gateways, and celestial symbols above. This work has much to do with the status of knowledge during the period. Curator: So, a statement on the "temperature" of enlightenment perhaps? A comment on where we situate ourselves in the universe as our understanding expands? And the pen work... It is precise, but feels free, you know? Editor: That freedom is a feature of this style. Think about who was seeing this imagery. Engravings and pen drawings made art, design, and knowledge circulating—available to all types of publics, crossing borders. These are not singular gallery artworks we are discussing. Curator: I'm getting lost in the clouds again…It reminds me that even scientific pursuits were viewed through such wonderfully decorative and symbolic lenses. A complete blend of intellectual pursuit and sheer imaginative delight. The pursuit of absolute certainty framed as divine quest, almost. Editor: "Divine quest"—an interesting assessment. It is interesting to consider how works like this contributed to how knowledge was perceived by society at large. Thanks for bringing it alive. Curator: Thanks for grounding my flight! It’s lovely to see how art continues to work through these dualities.