Design for a Knife Handle with the Personification of Charity 1580 - 1600

Johann Theodor de Bry's "Design for a Knife Handle with the Personification of Charity," a 16th-century engraving, showcases intricate details and a symbolic representation of a virtue. The design features an elongated, vertical frame, embellished with swirling floral motifs and a central oval medallion, which depicts the personification of Charity, a woman holding a child in her arms. This engraving exemplifies de Bry's talent for combining decorative elements with allegorical imagery, creating a visually captivating design for a practical object. The piece's small size and delicate details highlight the meticulous craftsmanship of this period. The engraving is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, NY.