Compass c. 18th century

Editor: This print shows a compass, attributed to an anonymous artist. It seems to be a plate from a book, maybe about navigation. What do you see in this piece beyond its obvious function? Curator: I see a potent symbol of exploration and dominion. In the age of exploration, the compass wasn't just a tool; it was an instrument of colonialism, facilitating the exploitation of resources and the subjugation of peoples across the globe. Do you notice the fleur-de-lis? Editor: Yes, near the top. Curator: It reminds us that even scientific instruments carried the marks of empire. This compass doesn’t just point north; it points to a history of power. It invites us to think critically about the relationship between science, technology, and social justice. Editor: So, it’s more than just a navigation tool. Curator: Exactly. It represents the complex entanglement of knowledge, power, and historical exploitation. Editor: I never considered its relationship to colonialism before. Curator: It's a reminder to look beyond the surface of seemingly neutral objects and to ask who benefits from their existence and application.