Roof van Proserpina 1655 - 1700

"Roof van Proserpina" is an etching by Jan van Somer, dating from around 1655 - 1700. The print depicts the abduction of Proserpina, the Roman goddess of the underworld, by Pluto, god of the underworld. Proserpina is shown being pulled by a chariot of horses, driven by Pluto who is holding a trident. A winged cupid guides the chariot while a nymph, likely a personification of the river Styx, mourns Proserpina's abduction. The etching's dark, detailed, and dramatic style is typical of Baroque art.