Fortuna c. 17th century

Curator: This is "Fortuna" by Girolamo Scarsello, an etching measuring about 22 by 18 centimeters. Editor: There's a delicate, almost playful quality to it, despite the classical subject matter. The lines are so clean. Curator: Scarsello, active in the mid-17th century, utilized etching—a process involving acid to create the lines—allowing for the fine detail and tonal variations we see here. Editor: It feels very much of its time. I mean, Fortuna herself, so nonchalantly scattering her gifts while Cupid nips at her headscarf. Makes you wonder about the production context! Curator: Exactly! Who commissioned it? What was its function? These prints circulated widely, influencing artistic trends and shaping perceptions of classical mythology. Editor: Well, all this talk makes me feel like I should buy a lottery ticket. Curator: Perhaps a closer look at the production details may prove lucky?