Escape of Aeneas from Troy
1600
oil
From the collection of Galleria Borghese
1600
oil
From the collection of Galleria Borghese
This painting depicts a dramatic scene of escape from a burning city. Aeneas, wearing a helmet and carrying a child, is shown fleeing with his family. His father, Anchises, is being carried on his back, while his wife, Creusa, and son, Ascanius, follow closely behind. The city is ablaze in the background, with flames and smoke billowing into the air. The painting's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and drama, with the figures emerging from the shadows. The artist's use of color and light adds to the sense of urgency and chaos. To learn more about the artist who created this powerful scene, look up Federico Barocci.