Artwork

Nurnbergische Hesperides: La Luchetta Imoperiale

Nurnbergische Hesperides:  La Luchetta Imoperiale, by Joseph de Montalegre, 1714
Nurnbergische Hesperides:  La Luchetta Imoperiale, by Joseph de Montalegre, 1714

Nurnbergische Hesperides: La Luchetta Imoperiale is a print by the Baroque artist Joseph de Montalegre. It dates from 1714 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Nurnbergische Hesperides: La Luchetta Imoperiale is a 1714 print by Joseph de Montalegre, held at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a gigantic lemon suspended above a town, with people below reacting in a chaotic manner. The lemon's unusual size and the crowd's response imply it holds special significance, potentially tied to local customs or symbolism.

Technique & Style

The work showcases a fantastical scene, with a detailed still life element – the cut-open lemon – juxtaposed against a lively, dynamic depiction of people and horses.

Artist & collection

Artist

Joseph de Montalegre

Joseph de Montalegre (1672–1729) was a Hungarian artist, born in Prague.

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