Manius Curius Dentatus Refusing the Presents of the Samnite Ambassadors 1732 - 1792

This drawing by Italian artist Fedele Fischetti depicts the Roman general Manius Curius Dentatus refusing gifts from Samnite ambassadors. The scene is set in Dentatus' humble home, where he is shown sitting on a simple stone block, while the Samnites attempt to bribe him with gold and jewels. The drawing is a powerful reminder of Dentatus' virtue and stoicism, qualities that were highly admired in Roman society. This artwork is a black and white chalk drawing on paper, and is now held by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.