Artwork
Mucius Scaevola
Mucius Scaevola is an unspecified painting by the Mannerist artist Hans Baldung Grien. It dates from 1531 and is held in the collection of the Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden.
About this work
Overview
Mucius Scaevola is a 1531 painting on lime panel by Hans Baldung Grien, a German artist known for his versatility and expressive use of color.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts the Roman legend of Gaius Mucius Scaevola, who demonstrated bravery by thrusting his hand into fire to impress an Etruscan king. The scene shows Mucius standing before a fire, sword in hand, with a determined expression, set against a cityscape with buildings and a river.
Technique & Style
Baldung Grien's work, trained by Albrecht Dürer, bridges the German Renaissance and Mannerism. He produced a range of works, including prints, stained glass, and altarpieces, characterized by imaginative approaches and expressive color use.
History & Provenance
The painting is held in the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister collection.
Artist & collection
Artist
Hans Baldung (1484 or 1485 – September 1545), called Hans Baldung Grien, (being an early nickname, because of his predilection for the colour green), was a painter, printer, engraver, draftsman, and stained glass…
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