On Witches and Female Soothsayers (1489) - Page 5

An elaborate allegorical vignette at the top of the page features an open book. The left page is filled with illegible text, while the right page prominently displays a stylized monogram of the intertwined letters 'A' and 'P'. Above the book, a radiant face with flowing hair is surrounded by rays of light, with a five-pointed star positioned to the right. Below the book, a skull, stalks of grain, and other decorative elements are entwined with a banner bearing the motto "LIBRO LIBER" A book is a free being. In small script at the bottom right of the illustration is the name "Stern Graveur" Stern the Engraver.

LIBRO LIBER A book is a free being

The book, according to my motto,

Often owes its light to the day,

Whether it is born of genius or folly,

It can be a father in its turn.

Atheist or believer as it pleases,

Without concern for the counter or the pro,

It creates or kills, raises or breaks,

And sows hatred or love.

At its voice, man is cowardly or brave,

It makes him free or else a slave,

And teaches him to live and to die.

Finally Science, Art, Industry,

Family, Humanity, Fatherland,

Will read their future in it!

Alfred Piat

A small vignette at the bottom of the page depicts two closed books leaning together.