Prudencia (Prudence)

Prudencia (Prudence)

Lucas van Leyden

1530

ink

From the collection of Rosenwald Collection

About this work

This engraving shows a woman sitting on a ledge, holding a small mirror in one hand while another hand rests on her knee. Above her, a cherub holds a round object like a mirror or shield. The scene looks like a quiet moment, with the woman’s pose relaxed but thoughtful. The word *PRUDENCIA* at the bottom hints this might be about wisdom or caution. The artist used fine lines to build up shadows and textures, giving it a detailed, almost three-dimensional look. Try looking up *engraving* to see how artists like this carved intricate images into metal.

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