The Massacre of the Innocents

1540s(?)

Nicolaus Beatrizet, after Marco Dente, after Baccio Bandinelli

Associated Names
Nicolas Beatrizet

Artist, French, 1515 - 1565 or after

Marco Dente

Artist After, Italian, c. 1493 - 1527

Baccio Bandinelli

Artist After, Florentine, 1488/1493 - 1560

This is a drawing depicting a historical scene. The composition includes numerous figures engaged in dynamic action across various levels within an architectural setting. The figures are stylized with muscular physiques, involved in a struggle or dramatic narrative. They are arranged in groups, some ascending steps, with a balcony above lined with more figures. The lower part of the drawing shows figures in seated or reclining positions, displaying expressions of distress or contemplation. The use of shading and line work accentuates the physicality and emotional intensity, while a detailed pattern on the floor establishes the scene's space.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.
Not on view See artworks now on view

Artwork overview

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Unidentified private collector (cipher on verso, not in Lugt). (sale, Christie's London, 3 December 2013, no. 53, as "After Baccio Bandinelli); (via Christopher Mendez, London); purchased 2013 by NGA.

Associated Names

Exhibition History

2018

  • Sharing Images: Renaissance Prints into Maiolica and Bronze, cat. by Jamie Gabbarelli, NGA, 2018, no.

Bibliography

1802

  • Bartsch, Adam. Le peintre graveur. 21 vols. Vienna, 1802-1821: Adam. Le peintre graveur. 21 vols. Vienna: J.V. Degen, 1802-1821: no. 21, copy A, ii/ii(or iii?)

Inscriptions

lower center in plate: Ant Lafrery; on scroll at right: bacius / fiorentinus / SR

Watermarks

fleur-de-lys in circle under coronet (see Briquet 7111-13, Italy 1544/1575)

Wikidata ID

Q77006245

You may be interested in

Loading Results