Artwork

Mercury (from the Tarocchi, series A: Firmaments of the Universe, #42)

Mercury (from the Tarocchi, series A: Firmaments of the Universe, #42) 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. Mercury is an engraving from the Tarocchi series A, Firmaments of the Universe, which illustrates classical astronomical concepts.

About this work

Overview

Mercury is an engraving from the Tarocchi series A, Firmaments of the Universe, which illustrates classical astronomical concepts. This piece personifies the planet Mercury as a human figure, drawing on mythological associations.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is Mercury, depicted as the Greek messenger Hermes. He is shown blowing a flute, holding a caduceus (staff with intertwined winged snakes), wearing a petasos (winged hat) and talaria (winged shoes), with a cock and the head of Argo at his feet. These elements reflect Mercury's mythological roles and attributes.

Technique & Style

The engraving features a full-length male figure in profile to the left, characterized by flowing attire. The style blends classical mythological elements with astronomical themes, typical of the Tarocchi series' illustrative approach.

History & Provenance

Part of the Tarocchi series A, this engraving is one of ten pieces representing the classical planets and celestial spheres. Originally, the series explored the hierarchy from the Supreme Entity to the planets.

Context

Created in a time when classical astronomy recognized seven planets (including the Sun and Moon), this work reflects Renaissance interests in reviving and illustrating ancient knowledge. The series situates Mercury as the second planet, son of Saturn and brother of Jupiter.

Legacy

Now housed at The Cleveland Museum of Art, this engraving remains notable for its personification of astronomical bodies as mythological figures, a characteristic theme of the Tarocchi series that fascinates art historians and those interested in the intersection of mythology and early modern astronomy.