An Emblem of Europe

Publisher John Fairburn British
September 4, 1798
Not on view
An emblematic female figure of Europe wears classical garb, carries a snake-encircled staff and leans on a pile of books next to an armillary sphere and telescope, a quadrant at her feet (these objects symbolize travel, navigation and astronomy). At right a beehive stands before an ocean and ships (references to agriculture and commerce). The print is part of a group that includes America and Asia (52.585.73, 52.585.75).

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: An Emblem of Europe
  • Artist: Anonymous, British, 18th century
  • Publisher: John Fairburn (British, active 1789–1840)
  • Date: September 4, 1798
  • Medium: Mezzotint
  • Dimensions: Plate: 15 1/16 × 9 3/4 in. (38.2 × 24.8 cm)
    Sheet: 16 1/4 × 11 3/4 in. (41.2 × 29.8 cm)
  • Classification: Prints
  • Credit Line: Gift of Emily C. Chadbourne, 1952
  • Object Number: 52.585.74
  • Curatorial Department: Drawings and Prints

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