Allegory of the Meeting of Pope Paul II and Emperor Frederick III

German 15th Century

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a complex composition of overlapping lines and shapes forming an abstract design. Two crowned figures are balancing on a large wheel, with one holding a scale. There are abstract elements resembling a medieval ship with a hull and oars, and architectural shapes like castles or fortresses on either side. Sun-like rays emanate from the top right. The scene conveys an allegorical depiction involving hierarchy and guidance, with human figures, symbols, and text.