Design for Knife Handles with Personifications of Peace and Faith
1580–1600
Medium
Engraving and blackwork
Dimensions
Sheet: 3 9/16 × 2 7/16 in. (9.1 × 6.2 cm)
Classification
Prints|Ornament & Architecture
Department
Drawings and Prints
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Lucien Goldschmidt, 1977
Accession Number
1977.558.7
Tags
Art Historical Context
In the late 16th century, engraver Johann Theodor de crafted this delicate *Design for Knife Handles withifications of Peace and Faith (ca. 1580–1600), a testament to the Renaissance fascination with ornamental designs for everyday objects. Measuring just 3 9/16 × 2 7/16 inches, this tiny engraving served as a model for silversmiths, blending allegory with whimsy. Graceful female figures embody Peace—perhaps with doves or olive branches—and Faith, symbolized by a prominent cross—surrounded by playful birds, rabbits, and squirrels that evoke harmony with nature. De Bry, part of a renowned fami...
About the Artist
Johann Theodor de Bry · 1561–1923
Comment on works: copper engraver