Allegory of America, from the playing cards "Jeu de la Géographie" 1644

This etching by Stefano della Bella, part of a set of playing cards known as "Jeu de la Géographie", depicts an allegorical representation of America. A female figure, possibly representing the continent, sits in a chariot drawn by two fantastical creatures, perhaps alluding to the unknown and exotic nature of the newly discovered land. The inscription below the image provides a brief description of America, highlighting its recent discovery and its division into two peninsulas, Mexico and Peru.