Africa
1575
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1575
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Africa is a 1575 ink by Etienne Delaune, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This engraving shows a round scene with a woman lying on the ground under a tree. Around her are two lions, a monkey, and an elephant. The woman holds a shield with a lion on it, and the tree has a snake coiled around it. The background is full of plants and animals, all drawn in careful lines. The word "AFRICA" at the bottom suggests this image stands for the continent. The mix of animals and the woman’s calm pose might symbolize something deeper, but it’s not clear just from looking. If you like this style, check out the technique: engraving.
