Artwork
Rib Cages
Rib Cages is a drawing by the Renaissance artist Battista Franco. It dates from 1544 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 1964.383
- Credit line
- Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Claude Cassirer
About this work
Overview
Rib Cages is a drawing that showcases a collection of human rib cages arranged in an unusual manner. The work reflects the artist's interest in human anatomy, a field that was gaining attention during this period.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing presents a grouping of rib cages, depicted with accuracy, yet assembled in a decorative and unconventional way. This juxtaposition suggests a dual purpose, oscillating between a scientific study of human anatomy and a symbolic reminder of mortality.
Technique & Style
The rib cages are rendered with attention to detail, indicating a strong understanding of human anatomy. The unusual arrangement of the rib cages adds a decorative element to the drawing, highlighting the artist's creative interpretation of the subject matter.
Context
The drawing reflects the growing interest in human anatomy during this period, influenced in part by the work of artists such as Michelangelo who attended human dissections and incorporated anatomical knowledge into their art.
Artist & collection
Artist
Battista Franco Veneziano (c. 1510 - 1561), baptized Giovanni Battista Franco, was an Italian Mannerist painter and printmaker in etching active in Rome, Urbino, and Venice in the mid 16th century. He is also known as…
