Artwork

Melpomene (tragedy) (from the Tarocchi series D: Apollo and the Muses, #17)

Melpomene (tragedy) (from the Tarocchi series D:  Apollo and the Muses, #17), by Master of the E-Series Tarocchi, 1467
Melpomene (tragedy) (from the Tarocchi series D:  Apollo and the Muses, #17), by Master of the E-Series Tarocchi, 1467

Melpomene (tragedy) (from the Tarocchi series D: Apollo and the Muses, #17) is a print by the Renaissance artist Master of the E-Series Tarocchi. It dates from 1467 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This engraving, Melpomene, is part of the Tarocchi series D, a set of 78 prints representing various arts and sciences.

Accession no.
1924.432.17

About this work

Overview

This engraving, Melpomene, is part of the Tarocchi series D, a set of 78 prints representing various arts and sciences. It is one of a series depicting Apollo and the nine Muses, goddesses from Greek mythology who preside over creative pursuits.

Subject & Meaning

The print shows Melpomene, the Muse of tragedy, as a woman in a long dress holding a dagger and a theater mask, set against a hilly landscape framed by a curtain. Her calm yet serious expression underscores her association with tragic drama.

Technique & Style

The engraving features a full-length figure turned to the left, rendered in a detailed and realistic style. The use of engraving allows for intricate textures and expressions, bringing the mythological figure to life.

Euterpe (music, lyric poetry) (from the Tarocchi series D:  Apollo and the Muses, #18)
Euterpe (music, lyric poetry) (from the Tarocchi series D: Apollo and the Muses, #18), Master of the E-Series Tarocchi

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Melpomene (tragedy) (from the Tarocchi series D: Apollo and the Muses, #17)?

Melpomene (tragedy) (from the Tarocchi series D: Apollo and the Muses, #17) was painted by Master of the E-Series Tarocchi in 1467.

Where can I see Melpomene (tragedy) (from the Tarocchi series D: Apollo and the Muses, #17)?

Melpomene (tragedy) (from the Tarocchi series D: Apollo and the Muses, #17) is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Melpomene (tragedy) (from the Tarocchi series D: Apollo and the Muses, #17)?

Melpomene (tragedy) (from the Tarocchi series D: Apollo and the Muses, #17) is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of Melpomene (tragedy) (from the Tarocchi series D: Apollo and the Muses, #17)?

Museum-quality prints of Melpomene (tragedy) (from the Tarocchi series D: Apollo and the Muses, #17) are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.