A King Pursued by a Unicorn, c. 1555
Jean Duvetexpand_more
Engravingexpand_more
Bequest of Herschel V. Jonesexpand_more P.68.163
Not on Viewexpand_more
The myth of the unicorn likely grew out of ancient sightings of the Indian rhinoceros, the only true one-horned animal. Unicorns were popular in French art, appearing in tapestries and paintings in the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Jean Duvet created a series of unicorn prints apparently inspired by the lifelong love between King Henri II and his mistress, Diane de Poitiers. These two chaotic prints illustrate the ferocious side of the creature as he resists capture, and his saintly demeanor in the presence of a virgin, who alone has the power to tame him.
Details
- Title
- A King Pursued by a Unicorn
- Artist Life
- 1485 - 1570
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- P.68.163
- Catalogue Raisonne
- B. 40; R-D 55; R-D 7
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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