Cornelis Mortier – North and South Pole, 1720 Antique world maps HQ

The artwork presents a cartographic representation overlaid with allegorical figures embodying the North and South Poles. A central globe dominates the composition, depicting the known world of the early eighteenth century. The continents are rendered in a stylized manner, emphasizing their outlines and relative positions rather than detailed topographical features. Inscriptions in French label various regions and bodies of water.
Flanking the globe are two female figures, personifications of the polar regions. The figure representing the North Pole is depicted amidst swirling flames and an aurora-like display, holding aloft a banner or standard. Her posture suggests dominion and power over the northern territories. In contrast, the South Pole figure emerges from a more subdued environment, surrounded by stylized waves and foliage. She appears to be gesturing towards the southern lands, perhaps indicating exploration or discovery.
The color palette is characteristic of early printed maps and allegorical representations: earth tones for the landmasses, blues and greens for water, and vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows for the symbolic elements surrounding the polar figures. The use of copperplate engraving creates fine lines and intricate details, contributing to a sense of precision and artistry.
Beyond its function as a geographical depiction, the artwork carries significant subtexts related to European exploration and imperial ambitions. The allegorical figures elevate the poles from mere geographic locations to symbols of conquest and dominion. The North Pole figure’s fiery aura suggests the challenges and dangers associated with northern expeditions, while the South Pole figures more tranquil setting might reflect a perceived ease or potential for exploitation in the southern hemisphere.
The presence of French inscriptions indicates the work’s origin within a European context, likely intended for an audience interested in geographical knowledge and imperial expansion. The overall effect is one of both scientific accuracy and symbolic grandeur, reflecting the complex interplay between exploration, cartography, and political ideology during this period.