Saint Roch standing holding a staff in his left hand, a dog by his side 1531 - 1576

This 16th century engraving by Giulio Bonasone depicts Saint Roch, a patron saint of plague victims and dogs, standing with a staff in his left hand, and a dog at his side. Saint Roch, a French pilgrim, is known for his miraculous healing of plague victims, and the dog is said to have brought him food and licked his wounds while he was ill. The artwork’s detailed lines and shading create a realistic representation of the saint's form and the surrounding landscape, showcasing Bonasone's skilled use of engraving techniques. The engraving is a testament to the religious devotion of the period and serves as a reminder of the importance of faith and compassion during times of hardship.