Ganymede (?) c. 16th century

Editor: This is Antonio Tempesta’s "Ganymede(?)," made sometime between 1555 and 1630. The etching depicts a bucolic scene with Ganymede being carried off by an eagle. I’m struck by how the artist combines classical mythology with everyday rural life. What’s your take on this juxtaposition? Curator: It’s interesting, isn’t it? Consider the role of prints in disseminating classical stories to a broader audience. Tempesta is literally bringing these mythological narratives down to earth, integrating them into the visual landscape of his viewers. Who gets to own these stories, and how does the medium change that? Editor: So, it’s less about high-minded allegory and more about accessibility? Curator: Precisely. The print medium democratizes art, potentially challenging the elite's control over imagery and narratives. Editor: That's a fresh way to consider it. Thanks! Curator: Indeed. Seeing the socio-political implications makes it even more compelling.