Herme van Priapus, van voren gezien 1646 - 1670

This etching by Hubert Quellinus, created between 1646 and 1670, depicts the Greek god Priapus. Known for his association with fertility and abundance, Priapus is shown here as a nude male figure with a wreath of leaves adorning his head, and a cloak draped over his hips. The inscription on the base reads "To the god of fertility," reflecting the deity's role in classical mythology. The etching's detailed rendering and lifelike portrayal of the figure reflect Quellinus' mastery of the art form. This artwork, currently housed in the Rijksmuseum, provides a glimpse into the cultural context of the 17th century, with its focus on classical mythology and its exploration of human form and symbolism.