The Triumph of Two Roman Emperors (left-hand side) with a Roman Emperor riding in a triumphal chariot
Original title: The Triumph of Two Roman Emperors (left-hand side) with a Roman Emperor riding in a triumphal chariot
kurzbeschreibung
Unlike related triumph depictions, this print by Cherubino Alberti (Zaccaria Mattia) brings two Roman emperors together in a single procession: the left side shows a ruler in a triumphal chariot, surrounded by soldiers and other participants. The engraving was made between 1570 and 1615 and belongs to a larger composition of a double triumph; the format measures 16 × 41.3 cm.
Description
A Roman emperor sits enthroned in the triumphal chariot, wearing a crown and traditional garb, with a soldier at his side. Warriors in victorious or fighting poses cluster around him, some in motion, others lying on the ground. Trees and additional figures in the distance suggest spectators or participants in the triumph. The layout feels lively and dynamic through the distribution of figures and the perspective; the even lighting and monochrome character are typical of an engraving.
Context
Cherubino Alberti, an Italian engraver and painter of the late Renaissance, is known for his reproductive prints after antique and contemporary models. The sheet was created at a time when Roman history and triumphal motifs were in high demand in art. The model and patron are not recorded; such prints often served to spread classical imagery. Alberti was active in Rome and well connected in the artistic circles of the time.
Impact
The dense sequence of figures and the triumphal imagery create a mood of power and victory. Precise lines and clear contours give the print a narrative quality that draws the viewer into the event.
Technique
In engraving, lines are incised into a metal plate and then printed. This process allows fine, detailed lines that sharply outline figures and movements. The even lighting and monochrome character are typical of this type of print.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)