Francesco Primaticcio

Italian, 1504 - 1570

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This is an illustration of a scene featuring a large figure with a staff, surrounded by sheep. A ship and a group of people can be seen in the background. The large figure is reclining on the ground with a staff. In the distance, a group of people is departing on a ship. The detailed linework and shading give depth to the figure, landscape, and sheep. The illustration is done in a style reminiscent of classical and Renaissance engravings, focusing on anatomy and narrative.
John Baptist Jackson, Ulysses and Polyphemus, chiaroscuro woodcut in yellow and black on laid paper, Gift of Ruth Cole Kainen, 2012.92.753

Ulysses and Polyphemus

John Baptist Jackson · · chiaroscuro woodcut in yellow and black on laid paper ·  Accession ID  2012.92.753

The image shows a classical ruin scene from a slightly elevated point of view. Architectural elements are combined with natural surroundings. The horizon is placed near the middle, appearing slightly elevated due to the mountainous landscape that recedes into the distance. Hills and mountains can be seen in the background under a sky painted with soft hues of blue and occasional white clouds. Close to us, a shepherd dressed in red sits by a water's edge, accompanied by a flock of sheep. On the right, impressive ruins with tall columns and statues provide a focal point, with two figures standing on steps. The style of the painting reveals smooth brushwork, evident in the detailing of foliage and stone structures. The color palette is dominated by earth tones, browns, and greens contrasted against the serene sky.
John Baptist Jackson, Ulysses and Polyphemus, 1701-1780, chiaroscuro woodcut printed from two blocks in yellow-green and black on laid paper, Gift of Ruth Cole Kainen, 2012.92.132

Ulysses and Polyphemus

John Baptist Jackson · 1701-1780 · chiaroscuro woodcut printed from two blocks in yellow-green and black on laid paper ·  Accession ID  2012.92.132

This is a painting of several muscular figures working in a workshop with tools. The image shows a scene from a forge where the figures are engaged in the physical labor of hammering and shaping materials, likely metal. The figures are surrounded by architecture, stone walls, and grotto-like formations. Each figure is in action, such as lifting tools, working a bellows, or tending to a furnace. There are smaller figures around, possibly children or mythical creatures, assisting or observing. The setting suggests a dramatic context with strong contrasts, typical of classic European artistic styles. The style is reminiscent of Hendrick Goltzius, known for intricate engravings and mythological themes.
Louis Elle I, The Forge of Vulcan, etching, Rosenwald Collection, 1954.12.24

The Forge of Vulcan

Louis Elle I · · etching ·  Accession ID  1954.12.24

The image shows three figures in flowing robes from knee-level upwards. The central person holds an open book, looking downward, with curly hair framing their face. The figure on the left gestures towards the book, and the figure on the right looks on with a tilted head. Above them, a nude cherubic figure with wings is flying. The background is subtly shaded with fine lines for depth, enclosed within a cross-shaped frame that includes all figures.
Giorgio Ghisi, Three Muses and a Gesturing Putto, 1560s, engraving on laid paper, Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund, 2005.45.2

Three Muses and a Gesturing Putto

Giorgio Ghisi · 1560s · engraving on laid paper ·  Accession ID  2005.45.2

The image shows a bustling scene along a river with various figures engaged in activities like fishing and boating. Close to us, figures are depicted in detail, with one man fishing on a barrel and another standing by the water with a net. Boats with people rowing or fishing are seen further away, leading to a horizon of trees and a distant view of a village with towers. The artistic style features fine lines and hatching for texture, with a monochromatic sepia color palette. In the background, people are gathered near tents.
Léon Davent, Fishing Scene, 1547, etching, Rosenwald Collection, 1952.8.6

Fishing Scene

Léon Davent · 1547 · etching ·  Accession ID  1952.8.6

This is a drawing of a historical scene depicting a large wooden horse surrounded by numerous soldiers. The image portrays an elaborate scene of an ancient military procession or event. The central focus is on the large wooden horse being pulled on wheels. The drawing is detailed, with soldiers and figures on horseback and foot engaged in various activities. The background features architectural elements such as arches and stone structures. The figures have exaggerated musculature and dynamic poses, conveying movement and intensity. Light and shadow enhance the three-dimensional form of the characters and objects. The composition is dense, with many human figures interacting and horses adding to the complexity and energy of the image.
Giulio Bonasone, The Trojans Hauling the Wooden Horse into Troy, 1545, engraving on laid paper, Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund, 2017.149.2

The Trojans Hauling the Wooden Horse into Troy

Giulio Bonasone · 1545 · engraving on laid paper ·  Accession ID  2017.149.2

This is a drawing of a weaving scene. It depicts multiple individuals working around a large loom. The attire suggests an ancient setting. The focus is on weaving and spinning thread, with various figures engaged in textile production. The setting includes architectural elements like columns and detailed backgrounds. Shadows and line work add depth to the scene.
Master FG, Penelope and Her Maids Weaving, c. 1545, engraving on laid paper, Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund, 1989.4.1

Penelope and Her Maids Weaving

Master FG · c. 1545 · engraving on laid paper ·  Accession ID  1989.4.1

This is a drawing of a group of figures in an architectural setting. The image depicts an interior with multiple figures seated and interacting in a semicircular arrangement, within a grand architectural setting featuring statues and reliefs. The scene is detailed, showcasing figures in classical attire, some engaged in conversation while others appear to be in contemplation or observation. The left side shows a curving wall with a doorway and niches filled with figures, while the background includes a detailed architectural backdrop, suggesting an emphasis on spatial depth and classical architectural elements. The figures in the drawing are engaged in varied activities, such as holding objects or interacting with each other. The style is reminiscent of classical or Renaissance art, emphasizing proportionate human figures and detailed architectural elements.
Domenico del Barbiere, The Banquet of Alexander the Great, 1544/46, engraving on laid paper, Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund, 1999.103.1

The Banquet of Alexander the Great

Domenico del Barbiere · 1544/46 · engraving on laid paper ·  Accession ID  1999.103.1

This is a drawing of a mythological scene depicting various figures working and interacting. The scene is filled with human figures engaged in industrious activities within an architectural setting resembling an ancient workshop or forge. The figures are shown in detailed anatomical poses, and the setting includes elements like stone walls, arches, and steps with textures and patterns. The combination of tools, presence of draped garments, and mythical winged figures suggest a classical or allegorical narrative. Various angelic or cherubic figures are seen assisting or in action, adding complexity to the scene.
Enea Vico, The Forge of Vulcan, c. 1546/1547, engraving on laid paper, Ruth and Jacob Kainen Memorial Acquisition Fund, 2020.82.2

The Forge of Vulcan

Enea Vico · c. 1546/1547 · engraving on laid paper ·  Accession ID  2020.82.2

This is a drawing of multiple nude figures with muscular physiques engaged in labor in a forge-like setting. The scene includes large stone structures and arches, as well as cherubic figures or putti in the foreground. The figures are shown working with tools, portraying a sense of activity and craftsmanship. The drawing showcases detailed depictions of the bodies and surrounding materials.
Master FG, Vulcan and Cyclops Forging Cupid's Arrows, 1540s, engraving on laid paper, Gift of C.G. Boerner, 2013.152.1

Vulcan and Cyclops Forging Cupid's Arrows

Master FG · 1540s · engraving on laid paper ·  Accession ID  2013.152.1