Among the most interesting decorative works of cartography is a series of arresting maps showing The Netherlands and Belgium in the shape of a lion. This version of the Leo Belgicus is based on the original Aitsinger form with the lion standing facing east with the right paw raised and holding a shield. "De Bello Belgico", written by Famianus Strada, a Jesuit and teacher at the Collegium Romanum in Rome, was a pro-Spanish and pro-Catholic book on the Dutch war of independence.