Two women of the zodiac standing beneath the signs of Libra and Scorpio (ca. 1517–20, Met-Objekt 5750)
Original title: Two women of the zodiac standing beneath the signs of Libra and Scorpio
kurzbeschreibung
Marcantonio Raimondi engraved this print around 1517–20. Two female figures in antique dress appear beneath the zodiac signs of Libra and Scorpio: the one on the left holds a book and writes, while the right raises her hand in a gesture. Fine lines and the monochrome treatment mark the sheet as a Renaissance engraving.
Description
A symmetrical layout governs the image: on the left stands a woman with a book and writing implement, on the right a second who addresses her with raised hand. Flowing garments envelop both, they stand on rocky ground, and trees and bushes frame them. The signs of Libra and Scorpio can be made out behind them, with the left figure assigned to Libra and the right to Scorpio. Light falls from above and gives the bodies plasticity; shading emphasizes folds of cloth and contours.
Context
Raimondi, an Italian engraver, became known above all for reproductive prints after Raphael. This sheet arose in a phase when he was deeply engaged with antique and astrological themes, which were widespread in the Renaissance. The zodiac signs suggest a learned patron who valued astronomy and mythology. Raimondi worked in Rome and maintained contacts with artists and humanists of his time.
Impact
A calm, balanced pictorial order creates a harmonious and at the same time mysterious mood. Clear lines and fine shading lend the sheet a noble graphic presence that draws the viewer into the allegorical scene. Antique costume and astrological symbols together give the work a timeless, intellectual aura.
Technique
In engraving, lines are cut into a copper plate and then inked with printer's black. Raimondi worked with fine, parallel hatching to model light and shadow, as was typical of Renaissance printmaking. The precise execution attests to his mastery in rendering textures and spatial depth.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)