Beschrijving
Engraving of Viglius.
Viglius (1507-1577), born Wigle Aytta van Zwichem, was a Dutch jurist, humanist, and statesman from Friesland. He studied law at several leading European universities and became one of the most respected legal scholars of his time. Emperor Charles V appointed him to important government positions in the Habsburg Netherlands, where he later served as a trusted adviser. Under King Philip II, he continued to play a key political role, although he often supported moderation and peaceful solutions during growing religious conflicts. Despite criticism from different sides, Viglius remained an influential figure in the government until his death in Brussels.
Engraving by Jacob Houbraken
