Embleem met allegorie op voorzichtigheid 1681 - 1737

This is François van Bleyswijck's "Embleem met allegorie op voorzichtigheid," an engraving from around the late 17th to early 18th century. This piece gives us a glimpse into the Dutch Golden Age’s understanding of virtue and societal values. We see Prudence embodied as a classical figure, complete with symbols of foresight. She holds a pair of compasses, a tool of measurement and careful planning, and a mirror. The two faces symbolize the ability to look to both the past and the future. Surrounded by emblems of maritime trade and architectural strength, the artwork emphasizes the importance of wisdom in the face of life's challenges. The Dutch Republic was a major maritime power, and we can understand how such visual messaging would reinforce the importance of careful navigation, both literal and metaphorical, for a society deeply engaged in global trade. Bleyswijck's print invites us to reflect on our own approaches to navigating life, considering how personal wisdom can guide us through uncertain times.