Lucius Junius Brutus laat zijn zonen onthoofden 1574

This 1574 engraving, "Lucius Junius Brutus laat zijn zonen onthoofden," depicts the Roman consul Lucius Junius Brutus ordering the execution of his own sons for treason. The scene is framed by an ornate border with lions and wheels, emphasizing the solemn and tragic nature of the event. This artwork, created by an anonymous artist, is a powerful example of the use of historical narratives in 16th century printmaking. The etching technique, visible in the lines, adds a sense of depth and detail to the scene. The image is a representation of the story of Brutus and his sons, a pivotal event in Roman history and a popular subject for artists of the time.