The Rape of the Sabines

Aegidius Sadeler II after Denys Calvaert

Associated Names
Aegidius Sadeler II

Artist, Flemish, c. 1570 - 1629

Denys Calvaert

Artist After, Flemish, 1540 - 1619

This is a drawing depicting multiple figures in motion in a chaotic scene. The scene features a dramatic and historical event set against a grand architectural backdrop with columns and arches. In the foreground, numerous figures, mostly male, engage in dynamic poses. The figures are depicted in various states of dress, with flowing garments and dynamic movement emphasized in their lines. There is a sense of urgency and intensity captured in the expressions and postures of the figures, set against darkened skies and sweeping drapery above. The fine lines and shading give the drawing a detailed and textured appearance, creating depth and movement throughout the composition.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    engraving

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Accession Number

    1974.55.16

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Hollstein, no. 147

Artwork history & notes

Bibliography

1949

  • Hollstein, F.W.H. et al. German engravings, etchings and woodcuts ca. 1400-1700. 8 vols. Amsterdam: Menno Hertzberger, 1954-1868. Dutch and Flemish etchings, engravings and woodcuts, ca. 1450-1700. Vols. I-XV, XVIII, XIX. Amsterdam: Menno Hertzberge

Inscriptions

lower left in plate below image: Dionisio Calloert in.; lower center in plate below image: Petr. de Iode excudit,; lower right in plate below image: G. Sadler Sculp.; across bottom in plate below image: ROMA NOVIS STABATIAM MOENIBVS ATQ.VIRORVM FELICI AVSPICIO RAPTAE VENERE SABINAE / ROBORE, NEC STIRPIS SPES ERAT VLLA NOVAE. ROMVLEVM FOETV PERPETVANTO. GENVS.; by later hand, upper right verso on backing: 63.34 / 35; by later hand, center verso on backing: Cf. Poussin's / Rape of Sabine - Louvre (Cat 1960.41) / " " " MMA (central group) / Bernini's Pluto & Proserpine (Group at extr. right) / (source in Giambologna?) / Lichtenstein Coll.; by later hand, lower right on backing: FK; by later hand, lower left on backing: T-758-AK

Wikidata ID

Q65564329

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