Saturne c. 17th century

Stefano della Bella created this etching, Saturne, during the 17th century. In this image, the mythological figure Saturn, often associated with time, decay, and endings, is carrying a child; his traditional scythe slung across his back. During the 1600s, images of Saturn were particularly resonant. The figure was not just a symbol of melancholy, but he could also stand for the instability and challenges of the time. Think about religious conflicts, the rise of scientific rationalism, and political upheaval. The visual language used here, like the bleak landscape and the god's weary posture, reflects the anxieties of a society in transition. By studying such images alongside historical texts, letters, and other cultural artifacts, we gain a richer understanding of the complex interplay between art, society, and individual experience in early modern Europe.