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Theodor de Bry

Ornamental Design for Knife Handle

c. 1588
Engraving in black on ivory laid paper
9 × 2.2 cm (3.5 × 0.9 in)

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● On view now — Gallery 238

Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · verified July 2026

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FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

These elegant knife handles (2014.1123 and 2014.1125) are a paired set printed from the same plate. Perhaps supplying front and back decorations for the same handle, both images include a nude female figure. The piece on the right depicts the ancient Roman figure of Lucretia, who was said to have committed suicide after being raped because she could not bear the dishonor brought on her family. Here she uses a blade to pierce her breast.

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