Marie de Medici 

This is an engraving of Marie de Medici, the Queen of France and mother of King Louis XIII. The portrait is framed by a series of vignettes that depict scenes from her life. The visual style is characteristic of the Baroque period, with a focus on detail and dramatic contrast. The inscription at the bottom of the engraving, *Quanto Grau splendens Mausula Cermis in Ore, Hoc Insinent Herous Comige Digna Fut*, is a Latin phrase that praises her for her courage and virtue. The portrait is likely an idealized representation of the Queen, and would have been commissioned by a supporter of her reign. This engraving is an excellent example of the way in which art was used to promote power and authority during this period, and to celebrate the achievements of prominent figures.