Map of Europe in the shape of a queen
1804 Rijksmuseum
About this artwork
This is an anthropomorphic map from 1804 that depicts the continent of Europe styled as a crowned queen, with Spain as her head and the rest of Europe forming her torso and robes. It was produced by the Rijksmuseum collection.
Did you know?
Anthropomorphic maps, known as 'Europa Regina', became a popular way to depict political power and geographic identity in early modern Europe. By shaping a continent into a recognizable human figure, mapmakers could allegorically suggest that the monarch represented by the 'head' of the map exerted influence or sovereignty over the rest of the landmass. This 1804 example reflects a long tradition of blending fantasy, politics, and cartography to engage viewers in the cultural geography of the era.
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Map of Europe in the shape of a queen
Rijksmuseum, 1804
