Apollo en Aurora (linkerdeel) c. 1622 - 1634

Giovanni Battista Pasqualini created this engraving, "Apollo en Aurora," in the early 17th century. It captures a vision of classical mythology, reflective of the era's fascination with antiquity. In this scene, Aurora, the Roman goddess of dawn, floats on clouds, scattering flowers, while Apollo, god of the sun, follows in his chariot, pulled by horses. The imagery is more than mere illustration; it's a statement on power, beauty, and the natural order. Consider how gender and power intertwine here; Aurora precedes Apollo, yet serves as a herald to his coming. Are we seeing a subversion or confirmation of traditional roles? The landscape below, rendered with meticulous detail, reminds us of the earthly realm touched by the divine. This piece invites us to reflect on our place within the grand scheme of the cosmos, to contemplate the intersection of myth, nature, and human existence. It is charged with the era's negotiations of faith, knowledge, and representation.