Pyrotchnia or a Discourse of Artificial Fire-Works, A Short Treatise of Geometrie 1635

"Pyrotchnia or a Discourse of Artificial Fire-Works, A Short Treatise of Geometrie" is a 1635 engraving by John Babington, an English artist known for his depictions of fireworks and other pyrotechnic displays. This intricate work, housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, depicts a fantastical maritime scene with ships, fortresses, and mythical creatures. The use of fine lines and intricate detail emphasizes the technical skill involved in creating fireworks and pyrotechnic displays. The composition and visual elements suggest a complex interplay between technology, spectacle, and mythology, reflecting the fascination with pyrotechnics during the 17th century.