Zoomorphic caricature map of Europe by António Soares

António Soares' "Zoomorphic Caricature Map of Europe," created in 1914, is a satirical and allegorical depiction of the European continent at the beginning of World War I, in which each country is portrayed as an animal. The main powers are represented by large, fierce animals: Russia is a polar bear attacking Austria-Hungary, depicted as a wolf, and Germany as a tiger devouring a deer, symbolizing Belgium. Great Britain appears as a leopard and France as a lion, both engaged against the German tiger. Smaller, often neutral countries are represented by more peaceful animals such as the Albanian rabbit or the Greek turtle, while Ottoman Turkey is shown as an ugly crocodile. This map is intended as a biting critique of the conflicts engulfing Europe.

The work is part of a tradition of zoomorphic maps dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, used to represent political tensions and conflicts symbolically and easily interpretable through animal figures. António Soares, a Portuguese painter and illustrator known for his modernism and caricatural vein, produced this map at a young age, earning a significant place in the European art scene of his time. Throughout his career, Soares continued to rework the map, also publishing an updated version at the beginning of World War II in 1939. This image remains a powerful example of how art can serve as political and social critique, combining cartographic precision and visual irony.

Material of unique quality

Print on handmade Amalfi paper
Sheet size: 40 x 30 cm
With frame: 43 x 33 cm
Material: work printed on very fine handmade Amalfi paper with deckled edges
Frame: Light brown beech wood and handmade wood paste