An Allegory of the Power of Love, c. 1500-1520
Robetta (Cristofano di Michele Martini)expand_more
Engravingexpand_more
Bequest of Herschel V. Jonesexpand_more P.68.250
Not on Viewexpand_more
At first glance an erotic romp in the woods, Robetta's allegorical print deals with the darker theme of the vanity of earthly things, namely carnal pleasure. The woman with the wreath in her hair is probably Voluptas, the goddess of pleasure. The putto at right tries to pull the man away from Voluptas while standing on a skull, making him the personification of Death. The putto opposite holds poppies, indicating that he may be Hypnos, the child of Night, who gives mortals dreams of foolishness. Such details ally Robetta's engraving with the "death and the lovers" theme so popular among artists in the North.
Details
- Title
- An Allegory of the Power of Love
- Artist Life
- 1462-after 1534
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- P.68.250
- Provenance
- 'Luca d' Glanda' in ink, verso, not in Lugt; no marks; Knoedler & Co.,1925
- Catalogue Raisonne
- Hind 29; Bartsch 25
- 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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