The Dance of the World

Attributed to Pieter Baltens Netherlandish

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 690

In this print, dancing serves as an allegory of the foolish behavior that worldly pleasures—as personified by the sumptuously dressed woman at center—are wont to inspire. The figures’ ungainly movements and implied consumption of alcohol have culminated in knocking a tablet labeled LEX (law) to the floor, underscoring their disregard for morality and decorum. The verses below the image cite drink, ambition, and lust as chief drivers of their profligacy.

The Dance of the World, Attributed to Pieter Baltens (Netherlandish, Antwerp 1526/27–1584 Antwerp), Engraving; second state of two

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The Dance of the World, Attributed to Pieter Baltens (Netherlandish, Antwerp 1526/27–1584 Antwerp), Engraving; second state of two
The Dance of the World, Attributed to Pieter Baltens (Netherlandish, Antwerp 1526/27–1584 Antwerp), Engraving; second state of two

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