Bartholomäus Spranger (Anversa 1546 – Praga 1611)

Bartholomäus Spranger (Antwerp, 1546 – Prague, 1611) workshop Aristotle and Phyllis Oil on canvas (64 x 54 cm - Framed 79 x 72 cm) Complete details of the work (click HERE) The curious subject of the proposed painting, quite widespread between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, is inspired by the medieval legend that tells how the philosopher Aristotle, known for his wisdom, was seduced and subdued by the young and beautiful Phyllis. Despite the discipline he so professed, the great scholar fell in love with the girl so much that he became her laughingstock, here immortalized on his knees while she is even ridden, thus demonstrating the power of seduction over reason. The story was interpreted as a warning about female power and the vulnerability of men, without distinction, even the wisest: it is therefore a sort of moralizing fable intended to warn against the pleasures of the flesh. The iconography is taken from an invention by Bartholomäus Spranger (Antwerp, 1546 – Prague, 1611), a leading exponent of European Mannerism and active at the Habsburg court in Prague, in the service of Emperor Rudolf II. The original painting, which has been lost, was then handed down thanks to the relative engraving by Sadler, which we propose in the attached images. From a stylistic point of view and considering the era, we can easily consider our work as an example coming from his workshop or more probably from an author of the close circle, therefore datable in the very first decades of the seventeenth century. Considering Spranger's role as the emperor's trusted painter, it is hypothesized that this amusing illustration was created for the personal pleasure of Emperor Rudolf, a great patron and art collector but at the same time a lover of women, alluding to his weakness and therefore to ironically warn him. If even the learned Aristotle, whose erudition is evident from the books piled on the shelf, showed himself powerless in the face of female cunning, anyone including the emperor would have been justified in succumbing to the temptations of the flesh. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: The work is sold complete with a pleasant antique frame and is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and a descriptive iconographic sheet. We take care of and organize the transport of the purchased works, both for Italy and abroad, through professional and insured carriers. It is also possible to see the painting in the Riva del Garda gallery, we will be happy to welcome you to show you our collection of works. Contact us, without obligation, for any additional information. Follow us also on : INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/galleriacastelbarco/?hl=it FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/galleriacastelbarco/