Erato c. 1540 - 1555

"Erato" is an etching by Cornelis Bos, a prominent Dutch Renaissance printmaker, depicting the Muse Erato, one of the nine muses in Greek mythology, who embodied lyric poetry and love. The print, created between 1540 and 1555, showcases Bos's mastery in creating detailed and expressive figures. Erato is shown reclining and holding a set square, symbolizing her association with geometry and the arts. This work, held at the Rijksmuseum, is a prime example of the influence of classical art and mythology on Renaissance printmaking, particularly in the Netherlands.