Marcus Curtius 1529

This 1529 engraving by Master I.B., a German artist active in the 16th century, depicts Marcus Curtius, a legendary Roman hero who sacrificed himself to save Rome from a chasm. Curtius, riding his horse into a fiery abyss, embodies self-sacrifice and civic duty. The detailed rendering of the horse, the dynamic composition, and the inscription “Marcus Curtius 1529”, create a powerful visual narrative, embodying both historical and moral themes. This work is an excellent example of the use of engraving to communicate historical narratives and evoke strong emotions.