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Original filePunitio Malorum, from Allegories of the Christian Faith, from Christian and Profane Allegories
About This Work
Pharaoh sits in his chariot as massive waves and clouds of smoke overwhelm his army, while a pillar of fire descends from the sky. The elaborate border contains medallions and square corner scenes showing figures such as Saul, Haman, and Abimelech meeting their violent fates. The print uses dramatic, swirling line-work characteristic of the Haarlem Mannerist style to convey the power of divine judgment.
This work illustrates the concept of Divine Justice and the inevitable downfall of earthly pride (hubris). It reflects the late 16th-century interest in moralized allegories that interpret biblical history as a series of universal philosophical lessons on the nature of power and providence.