The Seven Virtues

About this work

This engraving shows seven robed figures in a rocky landscape. In the center stands a woman holding a child, surrounded by others holding symbols like a spear, scales, and a cup. The figures are drawn in sharp lines, with some draped in cloth and others bare-chested. The background has a tree and distant buildings. Notice how the artist used fine lines to create shadows and texture—this is called cross-hatching. The figures seem to represent ideas, not real people, which is typical of allegories. Check out the technique: engraving to see how artists like this made detailed prints.