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Allegory of Arithmetic, 1650 (oil on canvas)
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Allegory of Arithmetic, 1650 (oil on canvas)
WLT218460 Allegory of Arithmetic, 1650 (oil on canvas) by La Hyre, Laurent de (1606-56); 103.6x112 cm; Walters Art Museum, Baltimore, USA; (add.info.: The importance of the intellect was often celebrated in representations of the Seven Liberal Arts: Grammar, Rhetoric, Logic, Geometry, Arithmetic, Astronomy, and Music, personified as poised young women in a setting and clothing suggestive of ancient Greece, home of Western abstract thought. On the book held by Arithmetic is the name of the Greek mathematician Pythagoras, while on the worksheet are the primary mathematical functions: addition, subtraction, and multiplication. ); French, out of copyright
Media ID 18253283
© Walters Art Museum, Baltimore, USA / Bridgeman Images
Calculation Inkwell Intellect Liberal Arts Mathematical Mathematician Mathematics Maths Meaning Metaphor Metaphorical Numbers Personification Personify Pointing Pythagoras Pythagore Quill Rococo Scholar Studying Teaching
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the "Allegory of Arithmetic" by Laurent de La Hyre, a masterpiece that celebrates the significance of intellect and learning. In this baroque painting, we witness the personification of Arithmetic as a poised young woman in an ancient Greek-inspired setting. The Seven Liberal Arts, including Grammar, Rhetoric, Logic, Geometry, Astronomy, Music, and Arithmetic were often depicted in such representations. The focal point of this artwork is the figure holding a book with the name Pythagoras inscribed on it. This alludes to the renowned Greek mathematician's influence on arithmetic. On her worksheet are primary mathematical functions like addition, subtraction, and multiplication – symbols of calculation and problem-solving. The composition exudes symbolism through its use of columns reminiscent of antiquity and classical attire worn by the figures. It serves as a metaphorical representation linking mathematics to ancient Greece – considered home to Western abstract thought. Through this allegorical piece, La Hyre emphasizes not only the importance but also the beauty inherent in numbers and calculations. The scholar-like woman points towards her work while writing with a quill pen dipped in inkwell—a visual reminder that teaching and learning go hand-in-hand. With its intricate details and rich symbolism rooted in both French Rococo style and classical influences from ancient Greece, this painting stands as an enduring testament to humanity's fascination with mathematics throughout history.
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