Engraving with the Family Tree of the Archdukes of Austria. Original from 1608

Noble ancient engraving with original antique coloring, made in 1608 and in excellent condition. It depicts the family tree of the Archdukes of Austria, with all their links, marriages and offspring from 990 AD to the 17th century, when the image was printed. The work is made in black ink on white paper and bears the original coloring, quite attractive and providing a very interesting aesthetic feature to the engraving. This piece was originally part of a book of royal European genealogies, something that gets revealed by looking at the Latin text printed at the back of the paper. The lineage of the Archdukes of Austria is indissolubly linked to Spain, as the House of Austria was one of the royal families that (together with the Bourbons) would occupy the Spanish throne. In this engraving they are all named, distributed over the majestic trees trunk and branches. The tree supports the golden cartouches with the names and dates of birth and death of every relevant figure. At the end of some branches we can see colorful coats of arms hanging from ropes and ribbons, and some cartouches bear a royal crown on them. At the top of the engraving, a wonderful big cartouche shows the Latin title: ARCHIDUCES AUSTRIAE. The lower half of this work of art is especially beautiful because of the presence of two decorative details: two naked cherubs holding one coat of arms each, and an amazing engraving depicting a fluvial city. From the coats of arms supported by the winged children hang ribbons with Latin inscriptions. If we put them together we will read: SUB UMBRA ALARU TUARUM PROTEGE NOS (Protect us under the shadow of your wings). In the foreground, a cart driven by a clown and a knight with a shield provide the scene with depth and life. The coloring and the precision of this masterful antique engraving turn it into an essential document for any art lover, and also for everyone fond of the study of European history and politics. Measurements: Paper: Width: 23.2 in/53.3 cm. Height: 20.8 in/59 cm. Engraving: Width:17.3 in/ 44 cm. Height: 21.1 in/53.8 cm.