Who painted Untitled?

Untitled was painted by Giovanni Battista Franco in 1611.

Where can I see Untitled?

Untitled is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Untitled?

Untitled is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Untitled

Giovanni Battista Franco , 1611

Untitled is a print by the Baroque artist Giovanni Battista Franco. It dates from 1611 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This print, titled 'Untitled', is an engraving that depicts a scene with multiple figures, set against a natural backdrop. It is one of thirty-six etchings by Giovanni Battista Franco in a 1611 book published in Venice.

Subject & Meaning

The scene shows Hercules, Nessus, and Deianira, figures from mythology, in a dramatic confrontation. A woman sits on the ground while a man on horseback and another aiming a bow and arrow are central to the composition.

Technique & Style

The print features a range of tones achieved through intricate lines and textures, characteristic of the engraving technique. Its dramatic and emotive qualities are typical of the Baroque style, which emphasizes intense emotions and dynamic movement.

History & Provenance

The print appears in 'De Excellentia et Nobilitate Delineationis Libri Duo', a book published by Giacomo Franco in Venice in 1611. The volume includes sixty-four plates across fifty-five sheets, along with additional text, and is bound in brown-calf parchment boards.

Artist & collection

Artist

Giovanni Battista Franco

Giovanni Battista Franco kept a room full of broken plaster casts—bits of gods and heroes he’d haul out at night to sketch by candlelight when the official models went home.