The Triumph of the Virgin, or The Small Thesis.

Engraving, 37 x 57 cm, signed in plate "Jac. Callot Nobilis Lotharing. In. et Sculp. in aqua forti excudit", on laid paper (trimmed to the platemark, with gilt border, mounted on cardb. support, sl. toned).

Thesis print commissioned by the order of the Friars Minor of the city of Nancy. The print visualises the points of the academic argument in the thesis defense by their friars André de l'Auge et Etienne Didelot. The argument conveyed on placards and banderoles defends the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary. Callot’s composition exceeds verbal imagery and prioritises the visual. As such, it shows a triumphal procession with the crowned Virgin on a chariot and, in the foreground, the Virgin crushing a demon, symbolising her triumph over the devil and death. With allegorical representations of the Virgin’s virtues. 2nd state (of 3) with the replacement of the word "Inuenerunt" by "Authores".
Ref. Lieure 562.2.