Faith — from Three Cardinal Virtues

This engraving shows a serene woman representing the virtue of Faith, characterized by her steady grasp on a large wooden cross and a sacramental chalice. Above her, two winged putti descend from clouds to crown her with a wreath of flowers. The composition emphasizes elegant, elongated proportions and detailed drapery, reflecting the stylistic trends of Dutch Mannerism.

The imagery of Faith as a personification holding the cross and chalice reflects the standard iconographic synthesis of theological virtues prevalent in Northern humanist and religious discourse of the late 16th century. It serves as a visual bridge between classical allegorical traditions and the confessional identity of the period.