Classical Gods, Muses, and Allegorical Figures 1566 - 1567

This 16th-century drawing by Giuseppe Salviati, known as “Il Salviati”, depicts a scene from classical mythology with a dynamic composition. The circular format, typical of the Renaissance, focuses on a group of classical figures and muses, with a falling figure at the center and other figures situated around the edge. Salviati’s masterful use of chiaroscuro and the dramatic gestures of his figures create a sense of movement and energy. The drawing, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, demonstrates the artist’s skill in portraying the human figure and his interest in classical themes.