Serpent Speaking to a Young Man
Marcantonio Raimondi
Description
Marcantonio Raimondi
Italy, ca. 1480–ca. 1534
Serpent Speaking to a Young Man
ca. 1505
Engraving on laid paper
Gift of Professor Walter M. and Nesta R. Spink, 2013/2.576
Subject Matter:
This enigmatic engraving has not been definitively interpreted. It appears that the two young men on either side of the composition are responding to the words of the serpent; one runs away in fear, the other, sitting beneath an apple tree, sinks his head into his hand in despair. At the center of the composition is a woman with a lute who observes the scene more neutrally, and may be an allegorical figure representing lust or libido. Each of the figures is inspired by ancient classical sculptures. The fortified city in the background recalls works by northern renaissance artists. As a whole, the composition demonstrates Raimondi's attempt to synthesize disparate sources.
Physical Description:
An engraving depicting a man sitting below an apple tree and conversing with a human-headed serpent. He is observed by a woman in drapery and a man who appears to be running away. In the distance there is a large fortified city.
Usage Rights:
If you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit https://umma.umich.edu/request-image/ for more information and to fill out the online Image Rights and Reproductions Request Form.