War (Bellum), no. 3 in a set of 4 allegorical figures
Engraving with an allegorical figure of War, third in a set of four, representing peace, abundance, war, and famine. War is represented by a woman wearing a helmet and cuirasse, holding a sword on the right hand, and brandishing a shield with her left arm. She is seated on a throne made up of a war trophy, containing a variety of arms. Although she is enthroned, her posture evoques movement; in fact, it seems as if she has just defeated her opponent. The background depicts a desolated landscaped, with a small town on fire, which symbolizes, in contrast to the landscapes of the previous prints of the suite, the ruins caused by the destructive fire of war.
Artwork Details
- Title: War (Bellum), no. 3 in a set of 4 allegorical figures
- Artist: Etienne Delaune (French, Orléans 1518/19–1583 Strasbourg)
- Date: 1575
- Medium: Engraving
- Dimensions: Sheet (trimmed): 2 3/8 × 3 3/16 in. (6.1 × 8.1 cm)
- Classifications: Prints, Ornament & Architecture
- Credit Line: Harris Brisbane Dick Fund, 1947
- Object Number: 47.139.15
- Curatorial Department: Drawings and Prints
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