The Latin inscription from Luis da Silveira's burial mound: a self-image sub specie aeternitatis

This paper provides an edition -and studies the meaning and context- of the humanistic inscription visible in the tomb of Luis da Silveira (1483-1534), in the family chapel (Gois, Coimbra), engraved on a book that reads the kneeling down effigy of the deceased. It argues the relationship of this sculptured book with the Books of Hours, despite the humanistic shape of the inscription's script. Some affinities with other Italian and Peninsular Renaissance tombs are explored too, in particular the tomb of the so-called 'Doncel of Siguenza'. In addition, it is explained how the humanistic script of this inscription refers to Silveira's education in the court of D. Manuel, and how the location in Gois responds to the withdrawal from the court at the end of his life.