This representation of Love's conquest is based on Petrarch's Triumphs, a poem that had already been illustrated in manuscript illuminations, cassone paintings, and at least four other engraved series. In his description of Cupid's procession, Petrarch compares the winged nude boy to a Roman victor who, bow in hand, is mounted on a chariot of fire pulled by four snow-white steeds. The poet's enumeration of Love's prisoners includes the hero Hercules—shown here carrying his column—and the philandering Jupiter, who, as in this image, is chained to the front of the chariot.

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