Last Judgement, plate 13 from Thrones of Justice (Thronus Iustitiae)
Medium
Engraving on ivory laid paper
Dimensions
Sheet: 30.9 × 39.4 cm (12 3/16 × 15 9/16 in.)
Classification
Department
Prints and Drawings
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
268612
Art Historical Context
Behold *Last Judgement*, plate 13 from Willem van Swanenburgh's series *Thrones of (Thronus Iustitiae)*, an engraving created in 1606. This Dutch master engraver captured the biblical drama of the Final Judgment in intricate detail on ivory laid paper, measuring 30.9 × 39.4 cm. Part of a larger emblematic series depicting thrones of earthly and divine rulers—from ancient kings to biblical figures—this plate crowns the narrative with the ultimate seat of justice: Christ presiding over souls' eternal fate. Swanenburgh's engraving technique shines here, employing fine lines and cross-hatching to...