Artwork

The Triumph of Julius Caesar: Caesar Triumphant

The Triumph of Julius Caesar: Caesar Triumphant, by Andrea Andreani, 1596
The Triumph of Julius Caesar: Caesar Triumphant, by Andrea Andreani, 1596

The Triumph of Julius Caesar: Caesar Triumphant is a print by the Renaissance artist Andrea Andreani. It dates from 1596 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Triumph of Julius Caesar: Caesar Triumphant is a chiaroscuro woodcut print, part of a series reproducing Andrea Mantegna's earlier painting of the same subject. This impression is printed on dyed silk with gold highlights added by hand.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts Julius Caesar's triumphal procession following his victory over Gaul, drawing on ancient texts for its elements and inspiration. The scene reflects the Roman tradition of honoring military leaders with ceremonial parades sanctioned by the Senate.

Technique & Style

The series employs chiaroscuro, a technique using strong contrasts between light and dark to create a sense of volume. The print's creator, Andreani, issued the series with decorative elements, such as classical columns, to enhance its display as a frieze.

History & Provenance

Commissioned by Duke Vincenzo Gonzaga, the series reproduces Mantegna's painting from a century earlier. The prints were designed to be displayed together, creating a decorative frieze, and were sometimes accompanied by additional decorative elements.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Andrea Andreani

Artist

Andrea Andreani

Andrea Andreani (1540–1623) was an Italian engraver on wood, who was among the first printmakers in Italy to use chiaroscuro, which required multiple colours.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.