H. Martha van Bethanië before 1585

This is H. Martha van Bethanië, made by Wierix around the turn of the 17th century, a time of religious conflict and fervent artistic production in the Low Countries. The image depicts Saint Martha, recognizable by her attribute: a dragon chained at her feet. This refers to the legend of her taming the Tarasque, a fearsome dragon ravaging the French countryside, a tale of female piety subduing destructive forces. Wierix's print offers insights into the cultural and religious beliefs of the time, showing a society grappling with ideas about good and evil. The formal style of the image, with its precise lines and detailed rendering, reflects the artistic conventions of the Northern Renaissance, where printmaking played a crucial role in disseminating religious narratives. To fully appreciate this artwork, consider the history of the Catholic Church and the lives of female saints. Research into the printing industry of the period also sheds light on the creation and distribution of such images.