Erasmus, Praise of Folly 1780

Editor: This print, "Erasmus, Praise of Folly" by Daniel Chodowiecki, seems to be a collection of symbolic vignettes. The whole piece feels rather enigmatic to me. What symbols stand out to you in this work? Curator: I see a layering of classical and contemporary symbols. Notice how Folly, the woman with the feathered hat, is celebrated by commoners. Above, a man rides with a fool on his horse, signifying folly guides even the powerful. Does this suggest anything about society's embrace of foolishness? Editor: It makes me wonder if the artist is celebrating or critiquing that embrace. Curator: Precisely! The winged Cupid and Venus amongst other allegorical figures hint at folly’s diverse forms, perhaps even self-deception. Does this change your initial impression? Editor: Yes, I see the complexity now. Thanks, this has been insightful!