Tekstblad met verklaring van de prent met Minerva, p. 9 1695

Charles Perrault made this text sheet, titled "Tekstblad met verklaring van de prent met Minerva," which translates to "Text sheet with explanation of the print with Minerva." In this piece, Perrault grapples with the multifaceted character of Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom and strategic warfare. In the text, Minerva is depicted as both a goddess of peace and war, armed with a lance and shield, surrounded by the instruments of art. Here, Perrault references the classical idea that skill is only possible with both hand and mind, and that Minerva presides over both. Perrault was writing in the 17th century, a time of enormous change in European society and culture. Louis XIV ruled France, fashioning himself after the Roman emperors. Exploring the figure of Minerva, Perrault offers a glimpse into the era's effort to reconcile its classical heritage with its own evolving identity. This text encapsulates the tensions of its time, reflecting the ongoing negotiation between intellectual pursuits, martial prowess, and artistic expression.