Allegory of Minerva as the Head of the Muses

in or before 1575

Hans Speckaert

Associated Names
Hans Speckaert

Artist, Flemish, died c. 1577

The image depicts a scene with mythological figures. A central nude female figure holds a staff or spear, partially draped in a flowing garment. Other figures in flowing robes surround her, some sitting and others in conversation. Above them on clouds sit two regal figures holding symbols of power, with a cherub-like figure on a chariot drawn by swans. Subtle architectural elements in the background contribute to a classical atmosphere. The drawing features detailed line work emphasizing movement and expressions.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    pen and brown ink with brown wash over black chalk on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    overall (approximate): 29.9 x 22.5 cm (11 3/4 x 8 7/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1972.3.1

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

C. G. Boerner

Associated Names

Exhibition History

1974

  • NGA Recent Acquisitions 1974, no. 42.

1985

  • Graphics Survey Exhibition, National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C., 1985-1986.

Bibliography

1971

  • Boerner, 10/2-10/23/71, 2.

Inscriptions

in later hand, lower center verso in graphite: 8746 / RCZZ

Watermarks

Crowned eagle in a circle (close to Briquet 207, 209)

Wikidata ID

Q64573019

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