Guardians of the walls of Jerusalem

Wierix, Hieronymus · 1579

Engraving on paper of the Guardians of Jerusalem, designed and engraved by Hieronymus Wierix (1553-1619) and published by Willem van Haecht in Antwerp in 1579. The personifications of Struggle (Proeliari), Vigilance (Vigilare) and Prayer (Orare) protect the walls of Jerusalem. In the centre, Vigilance blows a trumpet with banner that reads ‘God’s voice’ (Vox Dei). She holds a sponge beside the word cure (cura) above a plate that reads warning (admonitio). On the left, Vigilance holds a sword inscribed ‘word of God’ (verbum Dei) and a shield with the word faith (fides). On the right, Prayer, with the dove of the Holy Spirit, has a sign that reads trust (fidicia) and looks at a winged heart. Latin verse on the tower is from Isaiah 62.6: ‘I have posted watchmen on the walls of Jerusalem. Below are two verses of four lines each in Dutch and French. The engraving may relate to the capture of the fort at Willebroek (Belgium) on 19 September 1579.