Portret van Ludvig Holberg geflankeerd door Thalia en een engel 1722 - 1784

This engraving by Simon Fokke depicts Ludvig Holberg in the company of allegorical figures, amidst clouds and symbols. Notice Thalia, the muse of comedy, with her theatrical masks, juxtaposed with an angel. Angels often signify divine inspiration. The pairing suggests a divinely inspired comedic genius. See how the books cascade down from the clouds, each inscribed with titles, symbolizing Holberg’s prolific literary output. These books tumble towards a group of figures at the bottom, seemingly overwhelmed. This evokes the psychological impact of Holberg's work. Are they enlightened or overwhelmed? This motif of divine figures bestowing knowledge is far from new. Consider similar scenes from antiquity. It's not a linear progression, but a cyclical return of archetypes, adapted to new contexts. The emotional intensity and symbolism here act as a bridge, connecting us to deeper, subconscious understandings of knowledge, comedy, and divine influence.