Discovered From America Collection
"Unveiling the Dark Side: Crimes and Exploitation in America's Discovery" In this captivating artwork, we witness a powerful depiction of the discovery of America
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"Unveiling the Dark Side: Crimes and Exploitation in America's Discovery" In this captivating artwork, we witness a powerful depiction of the discovery of America, revealing both its riches and the atrocities inflicted upon its indigenous people. The composition is divided into four parts, each representing a different continent. On the right side, Africa is symbolized by a child held in the arms of a slave nurse. This poignant image reminds us of the deep-rooted connection between slavery and colonization. In the center, an Indian child personifies America as it presents its abundant treasures to Europe. With a basket overflowing with exotic food, this young representative showcases the wealth that would soon captivate European powers. Asia appears disguised as a child adorned in silk garments. This subtle portrayal highlights how Asia's influence on trade routes played an essential role in shaping global exploration. However, amidst these scenes of discovery lie haunting depictions of crimes committed by Spanish settlers. Engravings by Theodore de Bry expose horrifying acts perpetrated against Native Americans - from massacres to hangings and even children being thrown to dogs. The French also left their mark on history through plundering and burning Chioreran city during their conquests. Such actions remind us that colonization was not limited to one nation but spread across continents. De Bry's engravings continue to reveal further atrocities inflicted upon indigenous communities - Spaniards mistreating Indians while making them work or torturing them mercilessly. These images serve as painful reminders of humanity's capacity for cruelty when driven by greed and power. Amidst all this darkness lies Christopher Columbus' arrival in 1492 – an event celebrated for centuries but now seen through more critical eyes due to his role in initiating European colonization at great cost to native populations. Pearl fishing serves as an allegorical representation of discovering new worlds; aquatic nymphs alongside Indian counterparts present bountiful sea riches like coral and pearl shells.