Rhea Sylvia, ca. 1517–1561
MediumEngraving
Sheet dimensions14,9 × 10 cm
About the workAlthough the depiction of nudity flourished during the Renaissance, female and male sexual characteristics were usually covered by cloths, foliage or hands placed over the body parts. The pubic hair skilfully depicted in Heinrich Aldegrever's engraving is a rarity for this period. It portrays the king’s daughter Rhea Sylvia, who, according to myth, was the mother of Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome. Aldegrever was one of the most important Renaissance engravers and painters north of the Alps.
AccessionAcquired 1927 from the Hetjens Museum
Provenance[...]; 1928 übernommen vom Hetjens Museum, Düsseldorf
Inventory numberK 1928-509
