copperplate, handmade paper with watermark, sheet size 21x16 cm, signed on the matrix at the bottom: Adrian. Collaert excud.
An analogous engraving is in the collection of the Rijskmuseum. The engraving depicts SaintMargaret standing triumphantly over a defeated dragon (often symbolizing Satan), and in her hand she holds the palm of martyrdom. In the background on the left are visible scenes from her martyrdom, including burning at the stake. The image is surrounded by a decorative frame with a motif of flowers and birds. The engraving comes from the Martyrologium sanctarum virginum, a bookcontaining images of 24 martyrs, or holy virgins, who suffered death because of their holy faith, sincere religion and chastity. All the engravings were created by Adriaen Collaert, and were intended to show models of virtue and steadfast faith of women who preferred to suffer martyrdom rather than renounce their ideals.
Adriaen Collaert was born in Antwerp between 1555 and 1565. According to the Netherlands Institute of Art History, he became wijnmeester of the Guild of St. Luke in 1580. The title wijnmeester was reserved for the sons of guild members, and he was the son of Jan Collaert I and Anna van der Heijden. He married Justa Galle, daughter of his employer, Philip Galle. He also worked for Gerard de Jode (where he made engravings according to Maerten de Vos), Eduard Hoeswinckel and Hans van Luyck. After mastering the principles of art in his home country, he went to Italy and spent several years there. Upon his return to Flanders, he continued his graphic design career and was also an independent publisher of prints. He died in Antwerp in 1618.
