Minerva vertrapt vuurspuwend zeemonster 1710

"Minerva vertrapt vuurspuwend zeemonster" (Minerva Tramples a Fire-Breathing Sea Monster), is a 1710 engraving by an unknown artist. This work is a symbolic representation of the triumph of knowledge over ignorance. Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom and warfare, is depicted crushing a sea monster, representing ignorance and chaos. The image, which is now housed at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, is notable for its detailed depiction of both the human figures and the monstrous beast, and offers a glimpse into the artistic sensibilities of the early 18th century.