Triumph of Bacchus who is seated on a carriage at left 1531 - 1576

Giulio Bonasone created this engraving, Triumph of Bacchus, in Italy in the mid-16th century. Bonasone was closely associated with the artistic and intellectual circles in Bologna and Rome. This print demonstrates his engagement with classical mythology and the popular Renaissance theme of the "triumph," often used in civic festivals to celebrate power and victory. Here, Bacchus, the god of wine and revelry, is enthroned on a wheeled chariot surrounded by his ecstatic followers, satyrs, and nymphs. Looking back at the history of the Roman triumph, we can see the image creates meaning through the display of power but also through the overturning of everyday norms. This print presents a vision of liberation and ecstasy, but also prompts us to think about the social function of such imagery during the Renaissance. Was it merely decorative, or did it offer a commentary on the social and political structures of its time? To learn more, explore the print collections and festival books in museum and library archives.