Avernus lacus 1682 - 1730

Pieter van der Aa's "Avernus Lacus" is an engraving that captures the mystique of Lake Avernus, a place steeped in classical mythology and historical significance. Van der Aa, active during a period of burgeoning interest in cartography and ancient history, presents us with more than just a landscape. The lake, believed by the Romans to be an entrance to the underworld, is rendered with a serene detachment. It is a composition of human figures set against the backdrop of classical ruins which evokes the weight of history and hints at the narratives of power and belief that have unfolded there. The figures seem small against the landscape and therefore raise questions about individual purpose and legacy. While seemingly a straightforward depiction, the print also subtly reflects the cultural biases of its time. The romanticized view of classical antiquity often sidelined the perspectives and experiences of marginalized communities. This piece serves as a reminder of the selective nature of historical memory. It encourages us to consider whose stories are told and whose are left out.