Olympy Iovis Simulacrum (The Statue of Jupiter at Olympia)

1572

Philip Galle, after Maerten van Heemskerck

Associated Names
Philip Galle

Artist, Netherlandish, 1537 - 1612

Theodor Galle

Publisher, Flemish, c. 1571 - 1633

Maerten van Heemskerck

Artist After, Netherlandish, 1498 - 1574

This is a drawing of an ancient ceremonial gathering. A large statue of a seated figure is the focal point. The statue is positioned in a grand architectural setting with columns and alcoves. The statue holds a staff and is surrounded by intricately carved accompaniments, possibly representing mythological scenes or deities. Below the statue are numerous figures engaged in various activities. Some are depicted in dynamic poses, demonstrating physical feats or gestures of veneration towards the statue. The scene suggests a blend of reverence and athletic spectacle. On the left side, there is a detailed tree and an individual holding a laurel wreath. The right side includes additional statuary and individuals in conversation. The drawing is rendered with fine line work and elaborate shading, typical of traditional engravings.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    engraving on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of the Estate of Leo Steinberg

  • Dimensions

    sheet: 22.4 x 27.2 cm (8 13/16 x 10 11/16 in.), cut within platemark

  • Accession Number

    2011.139.93

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    New Hollstein, no. 480, State only


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Leo Steinberg, New York (1920-2011); Estate of Leo Steinberg; gift to NGA, 2011

Associated Names

Bibliography

1993

  • The New Hollstein Dutch & Flemish Etchings, Engravings and Woodcuts, 1450-1700. (Galle). Rotterdam: Sound & Vision Interactive, 1996-, no. 480

Inscriptions

upper right in image: Olympy Iovis / Simulacrum; lower left in image: Martin Heemskerck invent.; along lower edge: ELIS OLYMPIADVM MATER, QVAE SIGNAT ACHIVVM / NOBILIBVS FASTOS LVDIS, MIRACVLA CLAVDID / PHIDIACVM QVE IOVEM OSTENTAT NIVEO EX, ELEPHANTO, / QVALIS CAESARIE AC NVTV CONCVSSIT OLYMPVM

Wikidata ID

Q76559253

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