Van de Seven Planeten en haer Werkingh 1646

This is a page from Jan Philipsz Schabaelje’s book, "Van de Seven Planeten en haer Werckingh," printed in the Netherlands, sometime before 1656. This illustrated book deals with astronomy, astrology and their perceived influence on human affairs. Schabaelje explains how each of the seven planets—including the Sun and Moon— govern earthly matters. He argues that celestial bodies influence human nature, behavior, and historical events, linking each planet to both virtuous and wicked figures. The book reflects the cultural context of the 17th century, where astrology was intertwined with science and religion. In this era, there was a widespread belief in cosmic forces shaping human destiny. Schabaelje’s work could be seen as part of a broader intellectual movement which sought to understand the world through a combination of empirical observation and ancient wisdom. Understanding this book requires delving into the history of science, religion, and the occult, using resources from libraries, archives, and specialized collections. The interpretation of art lies in understanding its specific social and institutional context.