Allegorie van de dichtkunst 1788

Editor: This is Christian Bernhard Rode’s “Allegory of Poetry,” a pen and ink drawing from 1788. It's quite delicate. There’s a classical figure surrounded by cherubs. I'm struck by how serene the central figure appears, even with all the commotion around her. What stands out to you? Curator: Immediately, I see the enduring power of classical symbols. Rode utilizes the allegorical language common in the Neoclassical period. The central figure, presumably Poetry, embodies grace and order, key ideals of the time. She is receiving offerings of wreaths, but does she appear approachable, or rather as a distant, unattainable ideal? Editor: Distant, definitely. The cherubs seem to adore her from a distance, too. Is that a lyre at her feet? What’s the significance of that instrument? Curator: Precisely. The lyre is a direct reference to Apollo, the Greek god of music and poetry. Note how Rode places it at her feet, grounding the ethereal with the concrete tools of artistic expression. What emotions does that juxtaposition trigger in you? Editor: It feels like poetry is both divine inspiration and earthly craft. What I mean is, it’s about talent, but also requires study and dedication. Almost like the muses of poetry. Curator: Indeed! And what about the cherubs, are they all joyous? Do they hint to you about certain components or emotional registers associated with Poetry as an Art form? Is poetry always love and happiness? Editor: I think the figure blowing the horn isn't particularly peaceful. Maybe some of the darker elements that inspire the most moving of the poems? This has been an insightful interpretation! I hadn’t considered the weight that each individual symbol brings to the work. Curator: And I, that a student may initially approach symbols so organically with intuitive cultural sensibility. We must never underestimate that which the "innocent" eye may reveal to us!