Description
The collection of twelve prints, and its title page, is a series of intricate engravings that reflect a theme of mathematical and scientific exploration, depicted through allegorical scenes involving putti, or cherubic figures, which are a common motif in Baroque art. These figures are often used to embody aspects of intellect, spirituality, and the arts.
Title Page:
The title page features an ornate design with two putti holding a banner that reads “R.P. IOANNIS BAPTISTAE BILLOT E Societate Iesu POSITIONES MATHEMATICAE.” This suggests that the prints are visual representations related to the mathematical positions or theses of Jean-Baptiste Billot from the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), indicating a scholarly or academic work, likely used for educational or promotional purposes. The Jesuits were known for their contributions to education and science during this period. At the top, the putti are flanked by a swan and a figure that appears to be emerging from a shell, possibly an allusion to birth or creation ? themes relevant to the genesis of knowledge and discovery.
The Prints:
Each print in the series shows putti engaged in various activities related to science and mathematics. The scenes include:
1. Putti using a compass and straightedge, traditional symbols of geometry.
2. Experimentation with a balance scale, representing the study of physics and equilibrium.
3. Astronomical observations with a globe and star maps, indicating the study of the heavens.
4. Architectural studies, with putti examining classical buildings and ruins, suggesting a link to engineering and architectural principles.
5. Putti with musical instruments and mathematical diagrams, connecting music and mathematics, reflecting the concept of the harmony of the spheres.
6. Putti with scientific instruments such as telescopes and astrolabes, used for navigation and understanding the cosmos.
7. A scene of cartography and surveying, with putti measuring the land, pertinent to the development of geography and mapping.
8. Putti engaged in mathematical calculations, perhaps arithmetic or early forms of algebra, as indicated by numerical tables and counting.
9. A scene showing a putto teaching or directing others, possibly a representation of the dissemination of mathematical knowledge.
10. Putti in a library setting, symbolizing the pursuit of learning and the accumulation of written knowledge.
11. A scene with putti and a large book, emphasizing the importance of scholarly works and the recording of scientific discoveries.
12. Putti involved in artistic endeavors, possibly indicating the relationship between art and geometry, such as the use of perspective.
The presence of various instruments and tools throughout the prints underscores the scientific and mathematical theme, and the playful nature of the putti adds an element of whimsy to what would otherwise be serious scholarly subjects. The use of these figures to illustrate complex ideas suggests an attempt to make the abstract concepts of mathematics and science more accessible and engaging. This series likely served both as an educational tool and as a celebration of the intellectual pursuits of the Jesuit order in the Baroque era, showcasing their engagement with contemporary scientific and mathematical thought.
Made by Franc Erlinger after own design.
Medium: Etching / Engraving on hand laid (verge) paper.
Sheet size: 13 x 17.5 cm (5.12 x 6.89 inch). Image size: 12 x 16.5 cm. (4.72 x 6.5 inch).
Condition: very good, given age. General age-related toning and/or occasional minor defects from handling. Please study scan carefully.
JOANNIS-BAPTISTAE-BILLOT-JESUIT-MATHEMATICAL-POSITIONS-PUTTI-SCIENCE-ALLEGORY-FRANC-ERFINGER-17TH-CENTURY-EDUCATION-ASTRONOMY-GEOMETRY-NAVIGATION-MUSIC-ARCHITECTURE-CARTOGRAPHY | EXPO-DUTCH/FLEMISH
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Source: unknown, to be determined.
Biography engraver: Franz Erlinger (1640-c.1710).
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