78 César-François de Haraucourt de Chamblay – Allegorical Engraving - 17th Century

This intricate 17th-century allegorical engraving celebrates César-François de Haraucourt de Chamblay through a symbolic confrontation between Minerva, goddess of wisdom and war, and a menacing centaur representing chaos and irrationality. Minerva charges forward with a spear, while the centaur wields a club and bears a labyrinth on his torso, inscribed with the warning Ingressus semel peribit (“He who enters once is lost”).
Around them, Latin mottos and emblems emphasize order, moral strength, and political virtue, including the prominent dedication Caesar Franciscus de Haravcourt de Chamblay lavrum sperat (“César-François de Haraucourt de Chamblay hopes for laurels”). The architectural backdrop and heraldic cartouche further frame the scene as a visual panegyric—likely commemorating a military or administrative honor.
Such allegorical prints were often commissioned to flatter or immortalize noble patrons through classical iconography and Latin erudition. The unknown engraver demonstrates refined draughtsmanship and compositional clarity, placing this work within the tradition of early modern emblematic art tied to political representation.
Artist or Maker:
Anonymous
Dimensions:
22 cm x 33 cm
Medium:
Engraving
Date:
17th Century
Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.
Estimate | 200 - 300 SEK |
Buyers Premium (inc. VAT) | 24.4% |
Hammer Fee (inc. VAT) | 6 SEK |

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