Artwork Page for The Death of Procris

Details / Information for The Death of Procris

The Death of Procris

c. 1540

Giorgio Ghisi

(Italian, 1520–1582)

after Giulio Romano

(Italian, 1492/99–1546)
Culture
Italy, 16th century
Medium
engraving
Support
Laid paper(discolored to light gray)
Measurements
Sheet: 40.4 x 57.5 cm (15 7/8 x 22 5/8 in.); Platemark: 39.7 x 57.2 cm (15 5/8 x 22 1/2 in.)
Credit Line
John L. Severance Fund 1985.171
Catalogue raisonné
Lewis&Boorsch 5
State
before i/x
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
Print

Description

In the complicated tale of Procris and Cephalus, told by the poet Ovid (43 BC–AD 17), jealousy tragically thwarts their true love and fidelity. Fearing that Cephalus loves a nymph, Procris spies on her husband while he is hunting. When Cephalus hears Procris rustling in the woods, he mistakes her for game and throws his magical spear that never misses its mark. In this print, the chorus of expressive satyrs and nymphs mourning her death highlights the heartbreaking drama of this love story. Romano’s intricate composition also includes Aurora, the goddess of dawn, in her chariot, and distant buildings that refer to the couple’s home in Athens.

The Death of Procris

c. 1540

Giorgio Ghisi, Giulio Romano

(Italian, 1520–1582), (Italian, 1492/99–1546)
Italy, 16th century

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