Muren van Babylon 1608

Editor: So this is *Muren van Babylon*, "The Walls of Babylon", a 1608 engraving by Antonio Tempesta, at the Rijksmuseum. It’s an incredibly detailed cityscape filled with bustling activity; I get the impression of immense scale, both in terms of the architecture and the human effort involved. What really stands out to you when you look at this, Professor? Curator: Well, right away, it’s like peeking into a moment frozen in ink, isn't it? The Tower of Babel was never built (as far as we know!) and Babylon fell, so we’re witnessing the projection of a very, very creative mind from centuries ago! Look at the detail – the waves, the little people… What kind of story do *you* think he's telling us, with all those folks bustling about? Editor: I think it's all about building and ambition! It seems to capture a moment of grand construction and maybe even the pride of a civilization, a little *too* sure of itself. Is there a message in here? Curator: Possibly. Tempesta was working within a well-established tradition of depicting biblical scenes. The Tower was built out of pride to reach god. Pride goes before the fall, of course... So, in a way, it’s a reminder of the limits of human aspiration and power – quite sobering! But also… inspiring, in a strangely beautiful way. Don’t you think? Editor: I can see that duality – ambition versus downfall, almost romantic in its intensity. Thanks for pointing that out! Curator: My pleasure! Isn't it marvelous how art can hold such opposing forces? It makes you think, doesn't it? That’s why it’s still alive, so many years later.