A detailed 17th-century Dutch etching by Simon Frisius, featuring the Apostles' Creed surrounded by the four Evangelists and allegorical figures.

This etching by Simon Frisius, a Dutch printmaker active in the early 17th century, presents a complex allegorical structure centred on the Apostles' Creed. The composition is organised around a central plinth inscribed with the Dutch text of the Creed, written in elegant calligraphic script. Above this plinth, a personification of Charity (Liefde) is depicted with children, establishing a thematic focus on theological virtues.

The four Evangelists are positioned within the architectural framework: Matthew and Mark appear in the upper corners, while Luke and John occupy the lower sections. Their presence provides a scriptural foundation for the central text. Flanking the plinth are allegorical female figures representing Faith and Hope, each holding their traditional attributes. The background incorporates smaller narrative scenes, including depictions of the Last Supper and the Resurrection, which connect the written word to the visual history of the Christian faith.

Frisius demonstrates a high degree of technical control in his use of line. The etching employs varied hatching to create depth and shadow, particularly within the architectural arches and the drapery of the figures. The work reflects the Northern Mannerist tradition, where intellectual complexity and symbolic density are prioritised. The print functions as a devotional object, intended for contemplation of the Creed through both text and image. The balance between the rigid architectural elements and the fluid, decorative flourishes of the calligraphy creates a visual tension typical of the period. This print serves as an example of the sophisticated graphic arts produced in the Netherlands during the early 1600s, where printmaking was a primary medium for the dissemination of religious and philosophical ideas.