Ontwerp voor een titelprent met de Nederlandsche maagd (?) 1682

Gerard van Houten’s 1682 drawing, "Ontwerp voor een titelprent met de Nederlandsche maagd (?)", is a complex design for a title page featuring a central figure of a woman, potentially representing the Netherlands, seated atop a pedestal with three additional figures. The arrangement evokes a classical, allegorical style and may reference themes of power, strength, and national identity. The presence of a shield and spear held by a figure on the pedestal suggests the potential presence of military power. This detailed composition is rendered in black and white, highlighting the artist’s skill in capturing form and detail. The use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and drama, enhancing the visual impact of this dynamic design.