Illustrated Catechism for Spanish Children

Juan Hurtado de Mendoça (fl. ca.1600).
Exposición breve de la doctrina Christiana. Y algunos otras cosas para exercisios pios y de divocion [devoción] a los niños que empieçan à aprender, y ciertas canciones y versos a lo Divino. Recogidos y recopilados de diversos, y graves auctores.
Milan: Gratiado Ferioli, 1608. (BRB0725)

A unique copy of an illustrated catechism printed in Milan for Spanish children, this volume contains an introduction to Christian doctrine in verse for students to sing, brief devotional texts in rhyme, and additional short prose pieces and prayers. The author’s experience as an instructor at the school for orphans attached to the Spanish “Collegio de las Virgines del Señor Sanctiago” in Milan informed his choice of genres and texts for his young readers. Hurtado de Mendoça also prepared several images for the volume, including this woodcut of the Virgin holding the Child Jesus.