Fortitude

published 1559

Philip Galle after Pieter Bruegel the Elder

Associated Names
Philip Galle

Artist, Netherlandish, 1537 - 1612

Hieronymus Cock

Publisher, Netherlandish, 1518 - 1570

Pieter Bruegel the Elder

Artist After, Netherlandish, c. 1525/1530 - 1569

This is a drawing of a chaotic battle scene featuring a medieval-style fortress under attack and defense by numerous figures, animals, mythical creatures, and people. The fortress is in the center surrounded by scattered ships and dense forests. Fantastical elements include a flying horse, giant birds, and armored warriors in combat. The drawing is detailed with intricate armor, formations, and shading for depth. Latin text at the bottom adds further context. The composition conveys movement and intensity typical of a battle.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    engraving

  • Credit Line

    Rosenwald Collection

  • Accession Number

    1980.45.233

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    New Hollstein, no. 314, State i/ii

Artwork history & notes

Bibliography

1908

  • Bastelaer, Rene van. Les estampes de Peter Bruegel l'ancien. Brussels: G. van Oest et Cie, 1908.

1993

  • The New Hollstein Dutch & Flemish Etchings, Engravings and Woodcuts, 1450-1700. (Philips Galle, Manfred Sellink and Marjolein Leesberg, authors). Rotterdam: Sound & Vision Interactive, 1996-, no. 314, state i/ii.

Inscriptions

lower left, in image, in plate: COCK EXC.; lower center, in image, in plate: FORTITVDO (Fortitude); lower right, in image, in plate: BRVEGEL INVENTOR; lower margin, in plate: ANIMVM VINCERE, IRACVNDIAM COHIBERE, CAETERAQ[VE] VITIA ET, AFFECTVS / COHIBERE, VERA FORTITVDO EST. (To conquer one's impulses, to restrain anger and the other vices and emotions: this is the true fortitude.) [translation from Nadine Orenstein, ed., Pieter Bruegel the Elder: Drawings and Prints. Exhibition catalogue. New York: Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2001, p. 189.]

Wikidata ID

Q65579240

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