Allegory of Europe, from "The Four Continents" 1585 - 1605

This engraving, "Allegory of Europe", is part of the "Four Continents" series created by Marcus Gheeraerts the Elder between 1585 and 1605. The piece depicts Europe as a female figure, adorned with a crown and holding a sphere, symbolizing her power and dominion. The intricate details and surrounding imagery, including a bear, a horse, and a lion, suggest the diverse landscapes and attributes of the continent. The engraving is a testament to Gheeraerts' skill and his ability to portray allegorical concepts with visual clarity.