Allegories of Wisdom and Truth Leading the Infant Arts to America 1796

"Allegories of Wisdom and Truth Leading the Infant Arts to America" is an engraving by American artist John James Barralet, created in 1796. The artwork depicts two allegorical figures, Wisdom and Truth, guiding a group of children representing the Arts to America. The scene is set in a circular frame, surrounded by symbols of American prosperity and trade. The work is a testament to the aspirations of America's early national period, promoting the ideals of knowledge and progress. This engraving is a powerful example of neoclassical art, characterized by its attention to detail, balanced composition, and focus on historical and mythological themes.