Antique frontispiece engraving for the Acta Sanctorum Iunii (“Acts of the Saints for June”), part of the monumental scholarly series produced by the Bollandists, a group of Jesuit scholars who compiled critical editions of saints’ lives from the 17th century onward.

At the bottom center, the large inscribed stone clearly reads: ACTA SANCTORUM JUNII

In upper part, two enthroned figures on clouds: The figure on the left, wearing a papal tiara and holding a crosier, likely represents the Church personified. The figure on the right represents Divine Wisdom. Radiant sun behind them reinforces the divine source of truth. A small cherub holds an open book, symbolizing sacred scripture and revealed truth. In center, the altar of truth, a veiled woman burning incense over an urn suggests piety or the offering of historical truth. Behind her, women holding scholarly instruments represent history, chronology and hagiography. These symbolize the scientific method of the Bollandists, who used critical scholarship to evaluate saints’ lives. The stone tablet with "Acta Sanctorum Junii" is presented almost like divine law or revelation, grounding the entire composition. In lower left, the triumph over error, a monstrous figure wearing a crown threatened by a serpent is trampled and subdued. This is a classic allegory for heresy, superstition, and falsehood. Bollandist frontispieces frequently included symbolic battles between truth and error. In lower right,  time, study, and documentation, an elderly bearded figure with a scythe represents Father Time. Two cherubs examine scrolls and books, symbolizing scholarship, the preservation of authentic history, the passing on of saints’ lives across generations.

This frontispiece is an allegory to show the divine inspiration, scholarly rigor, and triumph of truth over falsehood.

Size of the page : 36,5 x 23 cm / 14,1 x 9 inches

Edition : Anvers, 1701, 18th century.

Condition : good condition.

If you buy more than one item, you have to pay just one only shipping cost. We will send your item by Registered and Insured Airmail or by DHL with covering insurance. Customs may be charged on international shipments. All customs charges are the responsiblity of the buyer and are not included in the selling price.

A Certification of Authenticity can be issued on request.

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WE DON'T SELL LASER AND COPIES MAPS, ALL WE SELL IS ORIGINAL AND ANTIQUE.

Due to the age an type of paper, some imperfections are to be expected. Please examine the images provided carefully, and if you have any questions please ask and we will be happy to help you.