The Duke of Mantua with the Six Principal Deities

Engraving, 1620 circa, signed bottom centre 'Oliv Gatt f'. At bottom left 'Lud Car inv'.

After Ludovico Carracci.

A very good impression, printed on laid paper, trimmed to the platemark, some expert repairs at the back, otherwise in good condition.

Allegorical composition for a thesis depicting Federico Gonzaga, Duke of Mantua, on Mount Olympus, embracing a palm tree, surrounded by six Greek deities who hold the trees dedicated to them: Minerva, Apollo and Neptune on the left; Zeus, Venus and Herkules on the right. The arms of the Duke of Mantua, between two river gods, in the foreground. On the left a woman is seated with trophies designating the city of Mantua.

According to Bartsch, the print was known as 'The conclusion of the deities'; according to the Dictionary of art, Federico was awarded the device of Mount Olympus by Charles V in 1522.

A very rare work.