Digital Gallery

Colericus, an engraving by the German artist Virgilius Solis, the Elder (1514–1562), is part of a series of works depicting the four humors as young women. The choleric disposition was associated with fire. The image depicts a woman holding a torch, seated next to a lion and an eagle. Her heart is pierced by an arrow. An excess of yellow bile made a person choleric, or impetuous, deceitful, extravagant, and bold.

• Digital Collection