Bacchus with Diana and Minerva 

Pierre Brebiette made this print called 'Bacchus with Diana and Minerva' in France in the early 17th century. The image presents the Roman god of wine, Bacchus, in the company of two goddesses: Diana, the goddess of the hunt, and Minerva, the goddess of wisdom. The imagery in this print, with its classical references, reflects the values of the French court at the time. The court of Louis XIII saw itself as a center of culture and learning, so Brebiette sought to flatter his patrons by associating them with these classical figures. The print also engages with the traditions of the French Academy, which was established to promote the arts and sciences. To understand this print, we might research the history of the French court and the Academy, and how these institutions shaped artistic production. By looking at the social and institutional context of the print, we can better understand its meaning and significance.