Pluto 1588 - 1590

Hendrick Goltzius created this engraving of Pluto in the late 16th century. It's an intriguing depiction of the Roman god of the underworld. The print offers a glimpse into the cultural and intellectual landscape of the Dutch Golden Age. Goltzius was a master of the engraving technique, and here, he uses it to full effect. The way he models Pluto's body with light and shadow displays not only skill but also a fascination with classical antiquity, a key feature of Renaissance art. The choice of Pluto, a figure associated with death and the hidden realms, might reflect the religious and philosophical interests of the time, as the Netherlands was experiencing a period of intense religious and political upheaval. To understand this work fully, we delve into the history of printmaking, the artist's biography, and the classical sources that inspired him. Ultimately, this image encourages us to think about the role of art in making sense of the world, both seen and unseen.