Andrea Mantegna (about 1431-1506)
'A Bacchanal with Silenus'
About 1470
Crowning of Silenus
Museum no. CAI 600
Bequeathed by Constantine Alexander Ionides

A key figure in the Italian Renaissance, Mantegna drew both his style and subject matter from the art of classical Rome. His bold engravings, which admirably reflect his skills as a draughtsman, were rediscovered by collectors in the late 19th century. This scene shows the crowning of Silenus who, inspired by wine, was victorious in a poetic contest.