The Triumph of Caesar by Andrea Andreani

The Triumph of Caesar 1595 - 1599

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"The Triumph of Caesar," a woodcut print by Andrea Andreani from 1595-1599, depicts a bustling scene of Julius Caesar’s triumphal procession through Rome. The print, which is over six feet long, is a masterful example of Renaissance art, showcasing Andreani’s skill in capturing the intricate details of the Roman celebration. This artwork, housed in the Minneapolis Institute of Art, provides viewers with a glimpse into ancient Roman culture and the power of a triumphant leader.

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minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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This grand procession celebrates Roman leader Julius Caesar’s (100 BCE–44 BCE) military victories in the Gallic Wars (58 to 50 BCE) fought in the territories of modern-day France and beyond. Trumpeters and banner carriers lead the way, then come heroes, chariots, trophy bearers, soldiers, captives, booty, horses, oxen, goats, and elephants. Onlookers gather in palaces and loggias and on top of aqueducts to witness the magnificence. At the rear, as the parade passes a triumphal arch, a shield reading “Veni, Vidi, Vici” (I came. I saw. I conquered.) announces the arrival of Julius Caesar—then a general—aboard his richly ornamented coach. He holds a staff and palm frond as Fame, personified as a winged angel, crowns him with laurels. The design is based on a spectacular, colorful cycle of nine large paintings made by Andrea Mantegna, one of the greatest artists of the Renaissance. He made them for Francesco II Gonzaga Marquess of Mantua in 1485. Francesco’s great grandson, Vincenzo I Gonzaga financed the production of this exceptionally large print made by Andrea Andreani.