Artwork

Shepherd in the Greek Style, Plate 5

Shepherd in the Greek Style, Plate 5, by Benigno Bossi, 1771
Shepherd in the Greek Style, Plate 5, by Benigno Bossi, 1771

Shepherd in the Greek Style, Plate 5 is a print by the Romanticist artist Benigno Bossi. It dates from 1771 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Shepherd in the Greek Style, Plate 5 is a print created by Benigno Bossi in 1771, now held at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a figure in a fantastical, patchwork costume that blends elements of armor and a cloak, adorned with geometric and clock-like motifs. The title 'Berger à la Grecque' suggests the outfit is inspired by ancient Greek attire, despite its fanciful nature.

Technique & Style

The figure is set against a plain, textured background, and their serious expression adds to the overall sense of intrigue. The costume's eclectic design and the print's unusual aesthetic reflect Bossi's creative approach to representation.

Context

The work's imaginative and anachronistic costume design may be associated with emerging artistic movements that valued creative reinterpretation of historical styles.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Benigno Bossi

Artist

Benigno Bossi

Benigno Bossi (1727–1792) was an Italian artist, born in Arcisate.

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