Perseus en Andromeda c. 1550 - 1575

Hans (?) Jamnitzer created this relief of Perseus and Andromeda, with no known date, from bronze. Classical myths were extremely popular in the 16th century, providing artists with a rich source of imagery. We can see the story of Perseus saving Andromeda from a sea monster, a popular tale that speaks of heroism and triumph over adversity. But in this telling, what is most striking is the density of the scene. The figures are compacted together in a way that makes it difficult to discern the narrative. In 16th-century Europe, the display of classical knowledge was a sign of wealth and education. Pieces like this would have been displayed in private collections, demonstrating the owner's refined tastes. The bronze medium itself suggests luxury, appealing to wealthy patrons. It is important to remember that our interpretation of art is always shaped by our own historical context, but by understanding the social and institutional forces at play, we can gain a richer understanding of its meaning.