The Death of Camilla 1555 - 1630

Antonio Tempesta's etching "The Death of Camilla" (1555-1630), currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, depicts a chaotic battle scene with numerous figures on horseback. The artwork, measuring 16 3/4 x 11 1/4 inches, depicts the death of the legendary warrior queen Camilla, a figure from Virgil's Aeneid. Tempesta's skilled use of etching creates a sense of movement and turmoil, capturing the intensity of the battle. The intricate details of the armor, horses, and fallen soldiers highlight the artist's mastery of this technique. This work provides a glimpse into the popular fascination with ancient Roman history during the Renaissance.