Allegory of the Emperor and the Pope

c. 1495

Italian 15th Century

Associated Names
Italian 15th Century

Artist

This is a drawing with a complex composition of symbolic elements. It features a large boat with architectural details and inscriptions. Two large figures are central, connected through ribbons with inscriptions like 'REX IMAPTORE.' Other labels include 'PAPA,' 'REX FRANCIE,' and 'DUX MEDIOLANI.' The scene includes a star labeled 'COMETA,' insignias, and a scale symbolizing justice. A blazing star on the right adds to the celestial theme. The style is intricate, resembling medieval or early Renaissance iconography, with allegorical content conveying a potential political or moral message.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    engraving

  • Credit Line

    Rosenwald Collection

  • Dimensions

    sheet: 27.4 x 20 cm (10 13/16 x 7 7/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1958.8.157

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Hind 'Engravings', Vol. 3, p.253, no. 7

Artwork history & notes

Exhibition History

1960

  • Columbus Gallery of Fine Arts, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 1960, no cat.

Bibliography

1938

  • Hind, Arthur M. Early Italian Engraving; a critical catalogue with complete reproductions of all the prints described. 7 vols. London: Bernard Quaritch Ltd., 1938-1948.

1973

  • Levenson et al. 1973, no.69.

Watermarks

present but not identified

Wikidata ID

Q65218874

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