Bilder Johannes Stradanus (1523–1605) – Combat of Wild Animals in an Arena – Engraving (1578)

Beskrivning

"Instructo spectant Proceres spectacula circo. Trux Leo dente Feras rabido discerpit et ungue: Prosternitq. Lupos: vincit conamine Taurum. Territus interea formidine contremit Ursus" illustrates a violent spectacle within a wooden arena where a lion attacks a bull, surrounded by a wolf and a cowering bear. The composition features a gallery of noble spectators observing the combat from a secure opening above, documenting the Renaissance practice of staged animal fights as aristocratic entertainment. This engraving is from the celebrated hunting series Venationes Ferarum, Auium, Piscium, published in Antwerp in 1578 by Philips Galle, which served as a comprehensive visual catalog of human-animal interactions and staged spectacles in the late sixteenth century.

Johannes Stradanus was a Flemish artist who spent most of his professional life in Italy, working primarily in Florence for the Medici family. He was a versatile designer who contributed to major decorative projects including the Palazzo Vecchio and created numerous compositions for tapestries and prints. His collaboration with the master engravers of Antwerp allowed his highly detailed and inventive designs to reach an international audience, significantly influencing the development of the animalier genre in European art. Stradanus is remembered for his ability to synthesize Northern observational detail with the grand narrative style of the Italian Mannerists.

Artist or Maker: Johannes Stradanus.

Dimensions: Approximately 25 cm x 30 cm.

Medium: Engraving.

Date: 1578.

Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.