signed with initials ‘T.D.B.F.’ and inscribed ‘De Hoouerdije is […] haar heerschappije.’ (in the plate)
engraving, illegible watermark
12.1 x 12 cm (plate); 12.8 x 12.6 cm (sheet)
Hollstein 180, first and only state [1]
A very strong, clear and rich impression, some of the supporting lines still clearly visible, with small to broad margins, otherwise in very good condition

This exceptionally intricate engraving, characteristic of De Bry’s refined graphic style, is one of a series of four designs for tazza, published in circa 1588. [2] The central medallion depicts pride and folly; pride (orgueille) is depicted here by the head of a satyr, while a jester represents folly (follie). The elaborate border shows, besides monstruous figures and elaborate plants and flowers, a peacock and a woman looking into a mirror, both representing pride. Furthermore, four stories taken from the New Testament and Mythology that are related to the theme are depicted: the Temptation of Adam and Eve; Marcus Curtius jumping into the abyss; the Whore of Babylon and Phaeton's death.
That the series of four prints had a clear political message is evident from the pendant to the present engraving. That print shows a portrait of the Duke of Alva, who was sent by King Philip II of Spain to suppress the Dutch Revolt in 1567 which sparked the Eighty Years' War. He is depicted as the ‘De Hoopman va[n] narheit’ (Captain of follies), wearing a fool’s head on his chest. His portrait is juxtaposed with that of William I of Orange, the leader of the Dutch revolt against the Spanish Habsburgs, who is shown as the Commander of Wisdom. The pendant to that print shows Charitas and the Acts of Charity. Although both the Duke of Alva and William I of Orange had died by the time De Bry published this series, its message remained highly relevant: the Eighty Years’ War was still raging and would continue until 1648.

[1] F.W.H. Hollstein, 'Dutch & Flemish Etchings, Engravings and Woodcuts, 1450-1700. Brun-Coques', Amsterdam, 1949, p. 47.
[2] E. de Jong, ‘Voorbeelden voor edelsmeden Theodoor de Bry (1528-1598)’, Openbaar Kunstbezit, 1970, no. 31, pp. 31a-31b.