Titelpagina voor Breviarium Romanum, 1614 1614

Theodoor Galle’s “Titelpagina voor Breviarium Romanum” is a 1614 engraving, a sophisticated example of the printmaker’s mastery of detail. The engraving shows Pope Pius V, wearing his papal tiara, seated and holding an open book. He is flanked by two angels who are holding up the book and the papal staff, while two figures of saints with keys stand at the bottom of the design. The engraving has a rich use of light and shadow and demonstrates the artist’s knowledge of human anatomy. This engraving was created as a title page for a Roman breviary. The engraved text on the title page reads “Breviarum Romanum”, indicating that this is the title page for the “Roman Breviary,” a book of prayers and liturgical instructions for the Roman Catholic Church. This piece is a testament to the skill and artistry of printmakers in the 17th century.