Andiron with the Figure of Jupiter 1600 - 1700

This Italian bronze andiron, made between 1600 and 1700 by the artist Niccolò Roccatagliata (1593-1636), is a stunning example of Mannerist and Baroque art. It features a central figure of Jupiter standing on a pedestal supported by winged creatures and flanked by putti. The piece's intricate details, including the naturalistic foliage and the dramatic poses of the figures, showcase the artist's skill and the rich decorative tradition of the era. The andiron, now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a testament to the artistry of the Italian Renaissance and its influence on decorative arts.