Allegorie op de beeldhouwkunst en schilderkunst 1670

Gerard de Lairesse's etching "Allegorie op de beeldhouwkunst en schilderkunst" from 1670, housed in the Rijksmuseum, is a symbolic representation of the relationship between sculpture and painting. The composition features three figures: a bust of a male figure representing sculpture, a female figure representing painting, and a smaller female figure in the foreground, likely embodying piety. This allegory emphasizes the importance of both skill and wisdom in the artistic process, highlighting the role of tradition (represented by the bust) and inspiration (represented by the painting). De Lairesse was a prominent figure in the Dutch Golden Age, known for his theoretical writings and emphasis on clarity and order in his art.