Minerva
Medium
engraving on laid paper
Dimensions
sheet (trimmed to plate mark): 11 × 7.6 cm (4 5/16 × 3 in.)
Classification
Department
CG-E
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Anonymous gift in memory of Charles B. Hoyt
Accession Number
1950.2.6
Art Historical Context
This exquisite engraving titled *Minerva*, created by an anonymous Netherlandish artist between 1501 and 1550, captures the Roman goddess of wisdom, strategic warfare, and the arts. Formerly attributed to Abraham de Bruyn, the work reflects the Northern Renaissance fascination with classical mythology, as artists across the Low Countries drew inspiration from ancient sources to explore themes of intellect and virtue. The small scale—measuring just 11 by 7.6 centimeters—suggests it was intended for intimate viewing, perhaps as part of a collector’s print album or a scholarly volume. Engraving ...