Saturn
1584
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1584
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This engraving depicts the Roman god Saturn, a bearded man wearing a turban and a cloth wrapped around his waist. He holds a scythe in his right hand and a baby in his left. The baby appears to be about to be devoured by Saturn. At his feet, a goat-like creature with horns and a fish tail is visible. The scene is set against a backdrop of clouds, with a banner above Saturn bearing the inscription "SATVRNVS" in Latin. The overall atmosphere of the engraving is one of drama and intensity, with Saturn's powerful pose and the sense of impending doom for the baby. For more information on the artistic style and techniques used in this engraving, look up the Renaissance movement.