Geometria (Geometrie) c. 1600 - 1685

Curator: This is "Geometria," an engraving dating from around 1660 to 1685 by Jean Baptiste Humbelot. The artwork presents an allegorical figure of Geometry, adorned with pearls and flowers, holding both a globe and a triangular plumb bob. Editor: Immediately, I'm struck by her gaze. She’s holding these mathematical tools, but there’s a serene almost knowing look on her face. Not the stern focus I might expect. Almost like she is winking. Curator: That's perceptive. The intention here is very likely to personify Geometry, to give it human form and appeal. The choice of a female figure speaks to the classical tradition where concepts and virtues were often presented as goddesses or allegorical women. Editor: Right, but why the plumb bob and the globe together? Is she sort of...ruling the world? Measuring it? The world as a construction site, maybe? Curator: In a sense, yes. Geometry was seen as fundamental to creating order and stability, be it in architecture, cartography or even social structures. Look at the half-finished scaffold in the upper-left background. These are structures rising. The globe signifies terrestrial space, while the plumb bob ensures vertical accuracy and stability in construction. They showcase Geometry’s role in shaping our world. Editor: It's fascinating to see such emphasis on geometry, almost celebrating the rationale. We're so used to seeing art prioritize emotions. I wonder how contemporary audiences reacted to what is quite a politically loaded statement – suggesting social harmony requires an almost scientific rationale? Curator: The text at the bottom reinforces that idea further. It declares her a source of admiration in both peace and war. Everything is about foundation, symmetry and order! Quite a contrast with how mathematics are portrayed today in pop culture as a very stressful thing! Editor: Maybe that's why she looks so calm...she knows she is the source of stability. A woman in full control of geometry. I can't think of anything so sexy as stability. Curator: A provocative sentiment, but also insightful! Let’s remember that such personifications carry with them their own ideologies of power and knowledge. It’s never as simple as order and harmony, is it? Editor: Exactly! This print, under its elegant surface, reflects very specific social and political ideals of the Baroque period. I find the contrast delightful between that almost radical pursuit of precision and the softness of her baroque clothing and face.