Who painted The Story of Virginia?

The Story of Virginia was painted by Sandro Botticelli in 1505.

Where can I see The Story of Virginia?

The Story of Virginia is held by Accademia Carrara.

What movement is The Story of Virginia?

The Story of Virginia is associated with High Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of The Story of Virginia?

Museum-quality prints of The Story of Virginia are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

The Story of Virginia

Sandro Botticelli , 1505

The Story of Virginia is a tempera painting by the High Renaissance artist Sandro Botticelli. It dates from 1505 and is held in the collection of the Accademia Carrara.

About this work

Overview

The Story of Virginia is a tempera painting by Sandro Botticelli, measuring 86 cm by 165 cm. It is housed in the Accademia Carrara in Bergamo, Italy.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a narrative sequence from left to right, illustrating the story of Virginia, a woman whose honor is violated by Marcus Claudius. The story unfolds with Virginia's abduction, a tribunal scene, a plea for clemency, and ultimately, her killing by her father to preserve family honor.

Technique & Style

The work showcases Botticelli's use of vibrant colors and agitated figures within a classical architectural setting. Multiple scenes are combined in a single image, a common practice in early Renaissance art. The background features wall paintings of battle scenes, adding to the overall dramatic atmosphere.

Context

The Story of Virginia is one of Botticelli's later works exemplifying virtue, similar to his The Story of Lucretia. The painting's themes of violated honor and matrimonial fidelity are conveyed through its narrative and visual elements.