The birth and the infancy of Achilles 1625 - 1675

Pietro Testa’s etching, “The Birth and the Infancy of Achilles,” depicts the legendary hero’s birth and early life. The scene is set in a grand hall, where Thetis, Achilles’ mother, is depicted holding the infant Achilles. The etching captures the essence of the myth, with the focus on the figure of Achilles and the celebration of his arrival. Testa masterfully utilizes light and shadow to create a dramatic and dynamic composition, contributing to the sense of excitement and celebration in the scene. The print provides a fascinating insight into the visual culture of the Baroque period, offering a unique visual representation of a pivotal event in Greek mythology.