The Triumph of Humility, from The Cycle of the Vicissitudes of Human Affairs, plate 7 1564

Cornelis Cort created this engraving, “The Triumph of Humility,” around 1570, as part of a series illustrating the ups and downs of human experience. The image reflects the influence of humanist thought during the Renaissance, particularly the celebration of classical virtues. Here, Humility is personified as a regal figure on a chariot, surrounded by other virtues like Modesty, Hope, Charity, and Faith. Each figure is rendered in a classical style, referencing ancient statuary and ideals of beauty. This wasn't merely an aesthetic choice; it was a way to legitimize these virtues, linking them to the glory of the classical past. The print would have circulated among an educated elite, reinforcing the values of a Christian society through the visual language of classical antiquity. Understanding this artwork requires a look into the intellectual climate of 16th-century Europe, where the rediscovery of classical texts and ideals shaped artistic and social values. Art historical databases and collections of early printed books can tell us more. The meaning of art is always dependent on its social and institutional context.