Two Pairs of Atlantes

Currently not on view

Two Pairs of Atlantes

1694

Giacomo Maria Giovannini (Italian, 1667–1717) After a painting by Lodovico Carracci (Italian (active Bologna), 1555–1619) Published by Marcantonio Fabbri, Bologna Copyist Giacomo Maria Giovannini (Italian, 1667–1717)

This work reproduces illusionistic atlantes painted by Ludovico Carracci for the cloister of San Michele in Bosco, Bologna, Italy. Atlantes, male figures used in place of columns, were usually represented with their hands behind their heads supporting the weight of the building on their shoulders. Both pairs of atlantes seem less concerned with providing support, however, than with fighting with one another, and are reminiscent of Antaeus, the Greek mythological giant who became stronger whenever he touched the earth, and Hercules, who overcame him by lifting him into the air.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Titles:

Two Pairs of Atlantes

Date:

1694

Artists:

Giacomo Maria Giovannini (Italian, 1667–1717) After a painting by Lodovico Carracci (Italian (active Bologna), 1555–1619) Published by Marcantonio Fabbri, Bologna Copyist Giacomo Maria Giovannini (Italian, 1667–1717)

Medium:

Engraving

Dimensions:

Plate: 14 3/4 x 8 15/16 inches (37.5 x 22.8 cm) Sheet: 15 11/16 x 9 15/16 inches (39.8 x 25.3 cm)

Classification:

Prints

Credit Line:

The Muriel and Philip Berman Gift, acquired from the John S. Phillips bequest of 1876 to the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, with funds contributed by Muriel and Philip Berman, gifts (by exchange) of Lisa Norris Elkins, Bryant W. Langston, Samuel S. White 3rd and Vera White, with additional funds contributed by John Howard McFadden, Jr., Thomas Skelton Harrison, and the Philip H. and A.S.W. Rosenbach Foundation, 1985

Accession Number:

1985-52-26435

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Currently not on view