Geometrie 1528 - 1583

Etienne Delaune created this engraving called 'Geometrie', a print on paper, sometime in the 16th century. At this time, geometry and mathematics were seen as key to understanding the universe, mirroring beliefs in cosmic order. Prints like this one circulated widely in Europe, especially in centers of learning, and they served as visual shorthand for complex ideas. Here, we see Geometry personified as a classical goddess, flanked by figures of what we might call "inspiration". Her pose, dress, and the architectural elements all speak to the rise of Renaissance humanism, which sought to revive classical learning. The Latin inscription at the bottom indicates that the image was produced under royal license, a reflection of the centralizing power of the state at this time. To understand this image fully, historians consult emblem books, architectural treatises, and records of courtly patronage. In this way, we can piece together the cultural context in which it was produced and consumed. Ultimately, 'Geometrie' reflects both the intellectual aspirations and the social structures of its time.