Emperor Decius from Icones Imperatorum Romanorum, plate 60 from Woodcuts from Books of the XVI Century c. 1557 - 1937

This woodcut by Hubert Goltzius, part of the "Icones Imperatorum Romanorum," depicts Emperor Decius in profile, surrounded by a circular inscription in Latin and a beaded border. This print is an example of the revival of interest in classical Roman history during the Renaissance, and provides a visual record of the historical figures who shaped the ancient world. The inscription surrounding the portrait identifies Decius as a Roman emperor, while the Latin text beneath explains that he was "given to the Romans as Caesar, and he was the first to be struck down by the sword of all the enemies." This print exemplifies the detailed and precise style of engraving popular in the 16th century.