Artwork

The Triumph of Julius Caesar: Colossal Statues and Siege Equipment

The Triumph of Julius Caesar: Colossal Statues and Siege Equipment, by Andrea Andreani, 1596
The Triumph of Julius Caesar: Colossal Statues and Siege Equipment, by Andrea Andreani, 1596

The Triumph of Julius Caesar: Colossal Statues and Siege Equipment is a print by the Renaissance artist Andrea Andreani. It dates from 1596 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.
1930.583.3

About this work

Overview

This print series, 'The Triumph of Julius Caesar: Colossal Statues and Siege Equipment', reproduces Andrea Mantegna's earlier painting in a chiaroscuro woodcut style. Commissioned by Duke Vincenzo Gonzaga, it depicts Julius Caesar's triumphal procession.

Subject & Meaning

The scenes show elements typical of Roman triumphal parades, as described in ancient texts, featuring colossal statues and siege equipment. The procession commemorates Caesar's victory over Gaul in 52 BC.

Technique & Style

The series employs chiaroscuro, a technique using contrast to create depth. Andreani's woodcuts were designed to be displayed together, with an optional sheet of classical columns to separate scenes.

History & Provenance

The prints were issued with a frontispiece featuring Mantegna's portrait bust and text highlighting the original paintings' popularity. Owners often displayed the woodcuts as a continuous frieze.

The Triumph of Julius Caesar:  Soldiers Marching with Trophies of War
The Triumph of Julius Caesar: Soldiers Marching with Trophies of War, Andrea Andreani

Artist & collection

Portrait of Andrea Andreani

Artist

Andrea Andreani

Andrea Andreani (1540–1623) was an Italian engraver on wood, who was among the first printmakers in Italy to use chiaroscuro, which required multiple colours.

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

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted The Triumph of Julius Caesar: Colossal Statues and Siege Equipment?

The Triumph of Julius Caesar: Colossal Statues and Siege Equipment was painted by Andrea Andreani in 1596.

Where can I see The Triumph of Julius Caesar: Colossal Statues and Siege Equipment?

The Triumph of Julius Caesar: Colossal Statues and Siege Equipment is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is The Triumph of Julius Caesar: Colossal Statues and Siege Equipment?

The Triumph of Julius Caesar: Colossal Statues and Siege Equipment is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of The Triumph of Julius Caesar: Colossal Statues and Siege Equipment?

Museum-quality prints of The Triumph of Julius Caesar: Colossal Statues and Siege Equipment are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.