Veritas

My name is Feely T. Heart, and I will be your guide today as we explore a captivating piece from the Prints Department of the Royal Library of Belgium: Veritas, a 1587 engraving by Philip Galle. This small but powerful artwork, measuring just 9.1 cm wide and 15.2 cm high, invites us into a world of symbolic representation. nn The central figure is a nude female, embodying Veritas – Truth itself. She stands gracefully on a simple platform, her long hair flowing freely, her left arm reaching towards a celestial light source above. A dove, representing the Holy Spirit, hovers near her head, further emphasizing the divine connection. The inscription "VERITAS" is prominently displayed, leaving no doubt about the subject's identity. nn Galle's masterful technique is evident in the subtle shading that gives the figure a remarkable three-dimensionality despite the limitations of the engraving medium. The background, rendered with delicate parallel lines, creates a textured effect that contrasts beautifully with the figure's form. The monochromatic palette, using various shades of black and gray, is characteristic of engravings of this period, yet it allows the light source to dramatically illuminate the figure, creating a halo effect around her outstretched hand. nn Veritas is more than just a beautiful image; it's a powerful statement reflecting the cultural and religious values of 16th-century Europe. The depiction of Truth as a nude female, illuminated by divine light and guided by the Holy Spirit, speaks to the era's complex relationship between faith, reason, and the pursuit of knowledge. The Latin inscription adds another layer of meaning, enriching our understanding of the artist's intentions. This small engraving, therefore, offers a profound glimpse into the artistic and intellectual landscape of its time. I hope you enjoy contemplating its beauty and symbolism.