The Triumph of Love, from "The Triumphs of Petrarch"

Francesco Rosselli

1480–1500 · Engraving; first state of two · Drawings and Prints

This representation of Love's conquest is based on Petrarch's 'Triumphs', a poem that had already been illustrated in manuscript illuminations, paintings, and in at least four other series of engravings. In his description of Cupid's procession, Petrarch compares the winged nude boy to a Roman victor who, bow in hand, is mounted on a chariot of fire pulled by four snow-white steeds. The poet's enumeration of Love's prisoners includes the hero Hercules—shown here carrying his column—and the philandering Jupiter, who is chained to the front of the chariot.

Artist

Francesco Rosselli

Date

1480–1500

Medium

Engraving; first state of two

Department

Drawings and Prints

Credit line

Harris Brisbane Dick Fund, 1925