Allegory of Europe, from the Four Continents 1728 - 1774

This etching by Gottfried Bernhard Goetz, titled “Allegory of Europe, from the Four Continents,” depicts Europe as a crowned woman astride a horse and holding a scepter. Surrounding her are figures representing the four continents, with an angel blowing a trumpet above. The print is a complex allegory of Europe's power and influence in the world. The use of etching, a technique popular in the 18th century, creates a sense of depth and detail. This artwork, currently in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a testament to the artistic spirit of the Baroque era.