Wikimedia Commons · Public domain · Hover to magnify, click for fullscreen
Original filePersonification of the Sun
Personificatie van de Zon met de tekens van de dierenriem en de werktuigen die verwijzen naar de aanleg en de werken van mensen geboren onder het gesternte. NL-HlmNHA 1477 53010759
after Hendrick Goltzius
About This Work
Sol is shown as a muscular, classically inspired youth holding a bow and arrow, symbolizing his role as the celestial archer. The decorative frame features the astrological symbol for the Sun at the top, a radiating sun-face in the corner, and a lion representing the zodiac sign of Leo. At the bottom, the print is numbered and labeled with the deity's name in stylized script.
This work belongs to a series of the seven planets, reflecting the Renaissance preoccupation with the influence of celestial bodies on the human microcosm and earthly destiny. It illustrates the integration of classical mythology with astrological science, a central theme in the natural philosophy of the late 16th century.