The Chariot of Ceres 1504 - 1514

"The Chariot of Ceres," a painting by the Italian Renaissance artist Pinturicchio, depicts the Roman goddess Ceres, also known as Demeter, riding in a chariot drawn by two dragons. The painting, dated between 1504 and 1514, showcases Pinturicchio's characteristic blend of classical and Renaissance styles. Ceres, the goddess of agriculture, is portrayed with a gentle expression, holding a sheaf of wheat, while the powerful dragons, adorned with scales and sharp teeth, suggest both her divine power and the ferocity of nature. This panel, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, originally served as part of a larger decorative scheme, exemplifying Pinturicchio's mastery of fresco painting and his contribution to the artistic landscape of the early 16th century.