Cavalry Engagement

Antonio Tempesta

Associated Names
Antonio Tempesta

Artist, Florentine, 1555 - 1630

This is a drawing of a battle scene. The drawing shows a cavalry charge in the midst of a battle. The focus is on horses galloping with armored riders. In the background, there are cavalry and foot soldiers fighting. The horses and riders are in dynamic poses, showing intensity. The drawing is detailed with textures and expressions.

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching

  • Credit Line

    Andrew W. Mellon Fund

  • Dimensions

    sheet: 17.2 x 25.2 cm (6 3/4 x 9 15/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1976.82.1.b

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Bartsch, no. 835

  • Series Title

    Battle Scenes I [B.828-837]

Associated Artworks

See all 11 artworks

Battle Scenes I

Antonio Tempesta

1555

This is a drawing of an ornate, classical text page. The central focus of the drawing is an elaborate cartouche containing a block of formal text. The border surrounding the text is intricately designed with classical motifs, including swirls, vegetation, and two seated figures on either side. These figures blend into the curled shapes and ornamental flourishes that adorn the border. The detailed embellishments add a sense of grandeur and antiquity to the overall composition, and the fine lines of the drawing suggest a skilled hand.

Frontispiece: Dedication to Pietro Strozzi

Antonio Tempesta

1555

This is a drawing of a battle scene. The drawing depicts a chaotic and energetic battle with several figures clothed in armor and wielding weapons, mounted on horses. To the left of the image, a group appears to be engaged in combat with massive creatures, resembling elephants, amidst billowing smoke or dust. The action centers around two horsemen, prominently positioned in the foreground on the right, seemingly leading the charge, one of whom is pointing or commanding others in the fray. Behind them, a cavalry charge is visible, with flags flying and more soldiers engulfed in the turmoil of battle. The scene is crowded, energetic, and filled with intricate, swirling lines creating a sense of frenetic movement and urgency. This image is rendered in a highly detailed, intricate linework typical of historical battle depictions.

Cavalry Attack on a Walled Fortress

Antonio Tempesta

1555

Artwork history & notes

Exhibition History

1995

  • Imitation and Invention: Old Master Prints and Their Sources, National Gallery of Art, Washington, 1995.

Bibliography

1802

  • Bartsch, Adam. Le peintre graveur. 21 vols. Vienna, 1802-1821: Adam. Le peintre graveur. 21 vols. Vienna: J.V. Degen, 1802-1821.

Wikidata ID

Q65565725

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