H. Agatha 1565 - 1630

Antonio Tempesta made this small etching of H. Agatha, sometime between 1570 and 1630. It demonstrates the period style through religious iconography and references to the classical world. This print depicts Saint Agatha who was martyred in 251 AD for refusing the advances of a Roman official. It presents Saint Agatha kneeling before a man who is probably Saint Peter. In the background, there is an image of her martyrdom. The image's meaning is created through this combination of Christian iconography, and also through the classical frame, decorated with foliage and grotesque masks, which was popular at the time. Looking at prints such as this one, it is important to consider the role of religious institutions in shaping artistic production, particularly in Rome at this time, as well as the social function of these types of images. For a deeper understanding of this artwork, you might explore the history of the Catholic Church in Rome at this time, as well as the popular tradition of collecting prints.