Theodosian Code, Volume 1

An engraving depicts a classical scene of Wisdom. On the left, a figure wearing a Corinthian helmet and scale armor—representing Minerva or Athena—is seated while holding a small object and looking toward a second figure. The second figure, draped in robes, sits on the right and looks upward in a receptive pose. In the foreground, a tall oil lamp stands on the left, and several books lie open or stacked on the ground. A fluted column stands in the background on the right. The image uses chiaroscuro, a technique of strong contrast between light and dark.

A rectangular decorative border appears at the bottom of the page, though it is heavily textured and mostly illegible.