Lion Hunt 16th century

This bronze Lion Hunt roundel was created by Moderno in Italy in the late 15th or early 16th century. The image of a lion hunt evokes classical antiquity, with the figures' muscularity and the dynamic composition recalling ancient Roman reliefs. But this isn't simply a revival of classical forms. The lion hunt was also a popular subject in Renaissance art, often used to symbolize strength, courage, and the triumph of civilization over the natural world. It also speaks to the social hierarchies of Renaissance Italy, where hunting was an aristocratic pastime and a display of power. As art historians, we delve into archival sources, such as court records and hunting treatises, to understand the cultural significance of such imagery. By studying this roundel, we gain insights into the values and aspirations of Renaissance society, as well as the ways in which classical traditions were reinterpreted and adapted to new social contexts.