Pandora Opening Her Box

1557

Master Z.B.M.

Associated Names
Master Z.B.M.

Artist, Venetian, active 1557

This is a drawing of mythical figures engaged in an allegorical scene. It presents a complex composition with several intricately detailed and elaborately posed figures. The central figure is a draped woman in motion, with her hand against her chin. To the left, another figure is working with a serpent emerging from a grotesque face on a pedestal, near books and paper. Above, there are celestial symbols in the sky, and another figure is propelling a chariot. The meticulous line work and shading provide texture and depth to the figures and their surroundings, creating a rich visual tapestry typical of classical allegorical themes.

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

  • Medium

    etching with engraving on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    plate: 37.1 x 23.8 cm (14 5/8 x 9 3/8 in.)
    sheet: 37.6 x 24.1 cm (14 13/16 x 9 1/2 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1972.33.8

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Passavant, no. 1, State i/ii

Artwork history & notes

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.

Wikidata ID

Q65575151

You may be interested in

Loading Results