Discovery of the Golden Fleece c. 16th century

Editor: Here we have "Discovery of the Golden Fleece" by René Boyvin, an engraving housed at the Harvard Art Museums. The dramatic figures framed by such elaborate ornamentation really intrigue me. What’s your take on this piece? Curator: This print reflects the enduring power of classical mythology in Renaissance visual culture. Notice how the ornate border, filled with putti and grotesque masks, contains the classical scene, creating a dialogue between the heroic narrative and the culture that perpetuates it. How do you think this kind of imagery functioned in its time? Editor: Maybe it was a way to legitimize power structures through association with classical ideals? Curator: Exactly! The heroic narratives could be used to reinforce contemporary social and political ideologies. Something to keep in mind as we continue studying art.