Pandora Opening Her Box

1557

Master Z.B.M.

Associated Names
Master Z.B.M.

Artist, Venetian, active 1557

This is a drawing of a mythological scene with celestial and earthly elements. The full-description showcases a dynamic and ornate composition featuring mythological figures in different settings. At the top, there is a depiction of a nude figure among stars, evoking a celestial or godly presence. Beside them, other celestial symbols like the sun and constellations are also visible. Below this celestial area, the drawing shows figures adorned in flowing garments, with a prominent figure holding or contemplating a snake wrapped around a pedestal decorated with a face. The figures are depicted with classical details, showcasing movement and emotion. The entire scene embodies a classical or allegorical theme, enriched with symbols and intricate details commonly found in European art of this era.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching and engraving on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    sheet (trimmed within plate mark): 37 x 27.8 cm (14 9/16 x 10 15/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1999.63.4

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Passavant, no. 1, State i/ii


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

(Paul Prouté S.A., Paris); purchased 1999 by NGA.

Associated Names

Bibliography

1860

  • Passavant, Johann David. Le peintre-graveur, contenant l'histoire de la gravure sur bois, sur metalet au buring jusque vers la fin du XVI siecle .... 6 vols. Leipzig: Rudolph Weigel, 1860-1864.

Inscriptions

lower left in plate: Z.B.M. / 1557; lower right in plate: D.B.; lower right verso, in graphite: 980588, 198/156

Wikidata ID

Q75423242

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