Author: Pieter Nolpe (c. 1613-ca. 1653), after Claes Moeyaert (1591-1669)
Title: [Antique print, etching] Henry IV as Hercules repairing the broken globe representing France, published 1639.
Description: Allegorical scene of Henry IV as Hercules, assisted by Mars and Athena, repairing the broken globe representing France by forging a band around it. Maria de' Medici stands at the right and the Olympian Gods look on from the clouds above.From a series with allegorical representations of the discord in France.Signed: 'CL. M. Inv:'; numbered '12' in lower right corner.Image from the triumphal arch for Marie de' Medici's visit to Amsterdam, 1638.Used in: Caspar Barlaeus, Blyde inkomst der allerdoorluchtighste koninginne, Maria de Medicis t' Amsterdam. t' Amsterdam: By Iohan en Cornelis Blaeu, 1639. Etching on paper, broad margins; platemark: 293 x 384 mm.; total: 374 x 445 mm.; watermark: Strasburg lily in crowned coat of arms; traces of previous mounting on verso; part of right margin missing. Muller 1793-12, Hollstein 102, state III/3.

Keywords: Allegories|Book illustrations|Eighty Years' War|France|Historical prints|Monarchs|Nobility