The three theological virtues (Hope, Faith and Charity) are standing near an altar above which the Holy Spirit is hovering, while the the four cardinal virtues (Temperance, Justice, Fortitude and Wisdom) are sitting in the foreground. Engraving.

Previous title, replaced May 2023 : The three virtues Hope, Faith and Charity are standing near an altar above which the Holy Spirit is hovering. Temperance, Justice, Fortitude and Wisdom are sitting in the foreground. Engraving.

Background, the three theological virtues, left to right: a woman holding a censer (Charity or Hope?), a woman holding a cup with a snake (Hope or Charity?), and a woman holding a chalice with the Host marked with a cross (Faith)

Foreground, the four cardinal virtues, described as "alumnae" or foster children of the theological virtues, left to right: Prudence protected by a dragon ("Sophiae comes"), Justice holding a balance ("aequa omnia lance discutiens") and a sword, Fortitude with a broken column and a lion ("Herculeas imitata manus"), and Temperance holding a musical instrument ("quae temperat omnes")

1 print : engraving ; platemark 30 x 29.7 cm

Quis sacer iste chorus, sacro decoratus ab ipso Pneumate? Nu(m) Pallas? Num Musae? Aut ora Minervae? Absit; Pierides nullae hic: verum optima credens firma Fides, Spes alta petens, Charitasque, et alumnae: Herculeas imitata manus; aequa omnia lance discutiens; Sophiae comes; it quae temperat omnes.

Wellcome Collection 38961i