1740
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
Tityus Devoured by the Vulture is a 1740 by Francesco Bartolozzi, a Baroque work, held at Victoria and Albert Museum.
This sketch shows a man lying on his back, arms stretched out, with a giant bird—looks like a vulture—perched on his chest. The bird’s wings are spread wide, and its talons dig into the man’s stomach. The scene feels dramatic, with the man’s body twisted in pain and the bird looming over him. The artist used soft shading to show muscle and skin texture, making the struggle look real. The background is simple—just a few clouds and waves, so the focus stays on the two figures. Next, check out chiaroscuro to see how light and shadow create drama like this.
This engraving by Francesco Bartolozzi reproduces Michelangelo’s composition in reverse, depicting the mythological figure Tityus being consumed by a vulture. The print is executed in red ink on paper.
Read the full account in the museum source.
Francesco Bartolozzi (21 September 1727 – 7 March 1815) was an Italian engraver, whose most productive period was spent in London. He is noted for popularizing the "crayon" method of engraving.
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