Peleus and Talamon, from the series 'Vessels of the Argonauts,' for the wedding celebration of Cosimo de' Medici in Florence, 1608 1608

This etching, "Peleus and Talamon, from the series 'Vessels of the Argonauts,'" by Remigio Cantagallina was created in 1608 for the wedding celebration of Cosimo de' Medici in Florence. It depicts a fantastical vessel, the "Argo," manned by the Argonauts, who are led by the figures of Peleus and Talamon. The vessel is adorned with elaborate decorations, including a tree growing from its bow and a figure holding a trident on its prow. Cantagallina's detailed depiction of the ship and its crew showcases the artist's masterful skill in rendering intricate details, which contribute to the overall sense of grandeur and spectacle. The piece is a testament to the enduring power of classical mythology and its relevance to Renaissance art, and it remains a cherished work in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.