The Abduction of Hippodamia
In Greek mythology, the Lapiths invited the centaurs to their king’s wedding. The centaurs drank profusely and attempted to abduct the bride, shown here struggling in her tormentors’ arms as the hero Theseus draws his sword. The battle with the centaurs was often represented during the Renaissance as an allegory of civilization’s triumph over barbarism. The composition was based on a 1542 engraving by the Italian printmaker Enea Vico (1523–1567).
Artwork Details
- Title: The Abduction of Hippodamia
- Date: late 16th century
- Culture: French, Fontainebleau or Avon
- Medium: Lead-glazed earthenware
- Dimensions: 14 5/16 x 10 13/16 x 2 5/8 in. (36.4 x 27.5 x 6.7 cm)
- Classification: Ceramics-Pottery
- Credit Line: Gift of Julia A. Berwind, 1953
- Object Number: 53.225.58
- Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
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Orazio Fontana
ca. 1545
Multiple artists/makers
ca. 1550 or later
Bernard Palissy
last quarter 16th century
French, Saintonge
16th century
probably French, Fontainebleau
second half 16th century
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