Who painted Speranza (Hope)?

Speranza (Hope) was painted by Master of the E-Series Tarocchi in 1465.

Where can I see Speranza (Hope)?

Speranza (Hope) is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Speranza (Hope)?

Speranza (Hope) is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Speranza (Hope)

Master of the E-Series Tarocchi , 1465

Speranza (Hope) is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Master of the E-Series Tarocchi. It dates from 1465 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Speranza (Hope) is a late 15th-century engraving, attributed to the Master of the E-Series Tarocchi, circa 1465. The work depicts a solitary female figure in a contemplative pose, accompanied by symbolic elements.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving portrays a woman kneeling in a reflective stance, with one hand on her chest and the other on her hip. A small bird perched on a leafy plant at her feet symbolizes hope. The title *Speranza* (Hope) is explicitly stated at the bottom, clarifying the subject's emotional and thematic focus.

Technique & Style

Executed in engraving with residual gilding traces, the piece showcases intricate line work, particularly evident in the textured rendering of the subject's hair and flowing robe. The plain background contrasts with the detailed, light-catching textures of the figure.

History & Provenance

Created around 1465 by the Master of the E-Series Tarocchi, the engraving bears the number XXXVIIII (39), suggesting its inclusion in a larger, numbered series. The artist's identity remains anonymous, known only through this and related works in the E-Series Tarocchi.

Context

Part of a tarocchi series, *Speranza* reflects the Renaissance interest in allegorical and symbolic subjects. Tarocchi decks, though originally for gaming, often incorporated philosophical and moral themes, with *Speranza* embodying one of the virtues.