Lion and Fury with Torches [reverse] 1607

Curator: The bronze relief before us is a medal created by Guillaume Dupré in 1607, entitled "Lion and Fury with Torches [reverse]". Editor: My initial impression is one of constrained energy. The circular format and dense composition suggest pent-up forces about to be unleashed, or perhaps contained. The bronze lends an air of ancient authority to the scene. Curator: I find your reading astute, noting how the circular boundary indeed focuses the narrative. Observe the sinuous, Mannerist style, evident in the exaggerated musculature and dynamic poses. The contrast between the controlled precision of the lion's form and the flowing lines of the fury is key. Editor: Precisely. The Fury with her blazing torches embodies destruction, but what does the Lion signify in this allegory? Given that it's being subdued, is it uncontrolled power or, perhaps, courage itself, being guided or even tamed? Also note the inscription 'INTACTVS • VTRINOVE'. Curator: Intriguing questions! We must unpack the symbolism further. The lion, classically a symbol of strength and royalty, certainly seems docile in this tableau. And 'INTACTVS • VTRINOVE' translates roughly to "Untouched in either way." Might this refer to a resilience or invulnerability despite the chaos suggested by the Fury? Editor: It points towards an assertion of resilience, suggesting fortitude during periods of disruption. I can't help but also consider the gendered dimension – a powerful, feminine Fury directing male potency represented by the lion. The torches, age-old emblems of enlightenment or, in this context, war, complicate the reading, making one ask, to what end is the Fury leading this 'courage?' Is there perhaps a psychological reading one could apply? Curator: An intriguing possibility. From a formal perspective, the relief's texture enhances the drama. The densely packed background provides an almost claustrophobic setting. Note how Dupré employs varying depths in the relief, creating an illusion of space and depth despite the compact dimensions. Editor: It definitely amplifies that sense of compacted intensity we sensed at first viewing. Examining the Fury, what emotions, what cultural memories would the contemporary audience associate with it? The tension between these iconic images is incredible! It’s interesting to speculate. Curator: Absolutely, our analysis of Dupré’s choices in this bronze provides us with greater depth and insight. Thank you for your fascinating perspective. Editor: Likewise, it has been interesting to uncover layers of meaning behind the work together. Thank you.