Diane Killing Chione 1606

Curator: This small engraving, only about 4x5 inches, depicts "Diane Killing Chione" by Antonio Tempesta, who lived from 1555 to 1630. It’s held in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: Wow, even at this scale, it’s explosive! The energy, the drama—Diana unleashing her fury from the clouds. The detail is astounding! Curator: Tempesta was known for his battle scenes and mythological subjects. This captures a story of divine retribution, reflecting themes of power and morality popular in the period. Editor: You know, it’s kind of terrifying, but also… liberating? Seeing a goddess so unapologetically angry. I can almost feel the tension in her bow. Curator: The printmaking process allowed for wide distribution of such imagery, shaping public perceptions of classical narratives and authority. Editor: It really makes you think about who gets to tell these stories, and how they impact us even now. What a potent little piece!