Allegory of the Treaty of Ryswick, 1697 1698

Johannes Voorhout’s *Allegory of the Treaty of Ryswick* (1698) is a large-scale oil painting that celebrates the Treaty of Ryswick which ended the Nine Years' War in 1697. The composition features a central female figure representing Peace, seated upon a step and holding a branch of olive. Surrounding her are various allegorical figures including an angel playing a trumpet, a figure representing War resting, and two children representing prosperity. This painting is a fine example of the Baroque style, with dynamic composition, dramatic lighting and the use of symbolism.