"D'Onder-Aardse Weereld", Kircher, Athanasius

This allegorical title page is from the Dutch edition of Kircher's famous Mundus Subterraneus (Subterranean World) published by Joannes Janssonius van Waasberge. The engraving centers on a seated female figure, who appears to be Clio, the muse of History, studying ancient writings. Beside her stand Mercury, with his winged feet, winged hat and caduceus, and an angel. Clio is being shown a portrait of Stadtholder William III of Orange by a putto. Behind them stands a statue of Artemis of Ephesus (also known as Diana of Ephesus). The view through the window shows a working mine.

References:

Condition: B+

Attractive color with a number of professionally repaired chips and tears in blank margins, with four tears entering less than 0.5" into image at top, and one tear entering 1.5" into image at left.