Artwork
Melpomene (tragedy) (from the Tarocchi series D: Apollo and the Muses, #17)
Melpomene (tragedy) (from the Tarocchi series D: Apollo and the Muses, #17) is a print by the Renaissance artist Master of the E-Series Tarocchi. It dates from 1467 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This engraving, Melpomene, is part of the Tarocchi series D, a set of 78 prints representing various arts and sciences.
About this work
Overview
This engraving, Melpomene, is part of the Tarocchi series D, a set of 78 prints representing various arts and sciences. It is one of a series depicting Apollo and the nine Muses, goddesses from Greek mythology who preside over creative pursuits.
Subject & Meaning
The print shows Melpomene, the Muse of tragedy, as a woman in a long dress holding a dagger and a theater mask, set against a hilly landscape framed by a curtain. Her calm yet serious expression underscores her association with tragic drama.
Technique & Style
The engraving features a full-length figure turned to the left, rendered in a detailed and realistic style. The use of engraving allows for intricate textures and expressions, bringing the mythological figure to life.
Artist & collection
Artist
Master of the E-Series Tarocchi
Master of the E-Series Tarocchi (b. 1400) was an Italian artist.
Polyhymnia (heroic hymns) (from the Tarocchi series D: Apollo and the Muses, #15)
Calliope (from the Tarocchi series D: Apollo and the Muses, #11)
Terpsichore (dancing and song) (from the Tarocchi series D: Apollo and the Muses, #13)
Erato (lyric and love poetry) (from the Tarocchi series D: Apollo and the Muses, #14)
Clio (history) (from the Tarocchi series D: Apollo and the Muses, #19)
Thalia (comedy, pastoral poetry) (from the Tarocchi series D: Apollo and the Muses, #16)
Melpomene
Urania (astronomy) (from the Tarocchi series D: Apollo and the Muses, #12)
Melpomene
Genius of the World (from the Tarocchi, series B: Cosmic Principles & Virtues, #33)
Genius of the Sun (from the Tarocchi, series B: Cosmic Principles & Virtues, #31)