H. Dorothea 1619 - 1672

This etching, "H. Dorothea," by Theodor van (II) Merlen, depicts the Christian Saint Dorothea. She is shown holding a rose and a cherub offers a basket of apples, representing her Christian faith. The image is in black and white, with the figures rendered in detail, capturing their expressions and clothing. The inscription at the bottom reads "S DOROTHEA VIRGO ET MARTYR," identifying the subject and her status as a virgin martyr. This piece, likely created between 1619 and 1672, reflects the religious and artistic trends of the period. It is a visual testament to faith and the enduring power of Christian symbolism.