The Dutch Frontispiece In The 17th And 18th Centuries

In this fascinating and ground-breaking monograph, Maria S. LaBarge analyzes the Dutch frontispiece to Francois Valentijn's 1726 book Oud en Nieuw Oost Indien, showing it to be a significant artistic statement, original in its rich and imaginative iconography and emblematic structure. In her work, Ms. LaBarge compares the Valentijn frontispiece to many other Dutch frontispieces and artworks that likewise feature similar allegories and iconographic elements, and demonstrates the ways in which the Valentijn frontispiece superbly and comprehensively summarizes and visualizes the text of the accompanying book. By clarifying the manner in which the frontispiece image functions emblematically, the author also illustrates how the image emulates early eighteenth-century Dutch culture's nostalgia for Golden Age styles and subjects. Within the context of the historiography of Dutch frontispieces, Ms. LaBarge's interesting study proves the Valentijn frontispiece is exceptional and unique.