Artwork
Title Page for Leonard Lessius, De Ivstitia et Ivre...

Title Page for Leonard Lessius, De Ivstitia et Ivre... is an ink print by the Baroque artist Cornelis Galle I. It dates from 1617 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. This 1617 engraving on laid paper by Cornelis Galle the Elder serves as the title page for Leonard Lessius's book *De Ivstitia et Ivre*.
About this work
The text names the book *De Ivstitia et Ivre*, meaning "On Justice and Courage," published in 1617.
This engraving shows a busy scene with four figures. At the top, a robed woman holds a set of scales while sitting on a rock. Below her, two women stand on either side of a shield with Latin text. One wears a crown, the other has a feathered headdress. At the bottom, two muscular men struggle with a broken column and tools.
The text names the book *De Ivstitia et Ivre*, meaning "On Justice and Courage," published in 1617. The figures likely stand for virtues—justice, wisdom, and strength.
Want to know more? Look up engraving to see how artists carved these sharp details.
Overview
This 1617 engraving on laid paper by Cornelis Galle the Elder serves as the title page for Leonard Lessius's book *De Ivstitia et Ivre*. Created using engraving techniques, it showcases Galle's skill in rendering detailed scenes.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts a complex scene with four figures representing virtues. A robed woman holding scales symbolizes justice, while the other figures may embody wisdom and strength. The Latin text on a shield between two women identifies the book's title, 'On Justice and Law'.
Technique & Style
Galle's training in Rome is evident in the engraving's design correctness and fluid execution. The work reflects the period's printmaking practices and showcases his skill in engraving on laid paper.
History & Provenance
Cornelis Galle the Elder, born in Antwerp in 1576, was trained by his father Philip Galle. After refining his craft in Rome, he returned to Antwerp to work as an engraver and printseller, producing plates after his own and others' designs.
Artist & collection
Artist
Cornelis Galle the Elder (1576 – 29 March 1650), a younger son of Philip Galle, was born at Antwerp in 1576, and was taught engraving by his father.













