Rechthoekige cartouche met vaas gevat in beslagwerk 1572

Editor: Here we have an engraving from 1572 titled "Rechthoekige cartouche met vaas gevat in beslagwerk" which translates to something like "Rectangular cartouche with vase set in ornamental work." It's a black and white print, and it seems to be some kind of map key or decorative element from a larger map. What catches your eye when you look at this piece? Curator: Well, isn't it funny how something functional can be so beautiful? Look at the lettering - 'Scala Milliarum Germanicorum communium’ - sounds so grand! It reminds me of ornate garden gates or perhaps the title page of a very important, very old book. The map aspect almost fades into the background; what we are left with is an echo of something vital, useful. It’s the stage directions, the footnotes to some epic. Do you ever think about the person who first saw this? The person for whom it was everyday… and now it’s… history! Editor: I hadn’t really thought about that, how this was someone’s mundane reality. Curator: Right? It was part of someone’s 'getting about.' So, knowing it was attached to a map – perhaps encouraging journeys - how do you think it fits into the whole Northern Renaissance aesthetic? Do you think there is some humor here? Editor: Hmm, well, the Renaissance was all about detail, wasn't it? This definitely has that intricate, ornamental quality... maybe the humor comes from elevating something as simple as a map key into a work of art? Curator: Exactly! A little wink to the viewer: "Yes, this is a map… but also, isn’t it gorgeous?". I love how practical purpose dances with this need to adorn the world around us. Like gargoyles, a perfect blend of whimsy, art, and function, gazing upon the cities we build. Editor: That makes me see the work very differently, now. Curator: Wonderful! Art is never one-sided, is it? Keep looking at art with these questions. Keep thinking about people, utility, wonder.