Luna 1579 - 1609

"Luna" (1579-1609), a detailed engraving by Hieronymus Wierix, depicts the Roman goddess of the Moon holding a crescent moon in her right hand. She stands with her weight on her right leg, a long staff held in her left hand. The depiction of Luna with her attributes is typical of the Renaissance period's fascination with classical mythology. Wierix, a prominent printmaker of his time, created this small-scale work (56 mm x 38 mm) to be easily collected and appreciated by a wide audience. Today, this engraving is part of the Rijksmuseum’s collection.