s Faith - Hull Museums Collections

Faith

At the very end of his life Goltzius took up oil painting reputedly because his failing eyesight prevented him from working as a draughtsman and engraver. In this genre he was supreme in his time both for his skills and inventive compositions. This picture relates to Goltzius’ drawing of Faith from a series of Cardinal Virtues. Its approach is unusual as Faith is normally shown with Hope and Charity. Here, Faith holds a crucifix and chalice symbolising the Sacrament. Painted in Haarlem, it is a good example of Dutch Mannersim of the early 17th century, owing everything to Italian models and nothing to the northern tradition.