Allegory of Life

Giorgio Ghisi

Cleveland Museum of Art

Black and white engraving depicting a man and a woman in a jungle. The man on the left, wearing a robe, faces right. A woman on the right, wearing drapery exposing her upper body and one breast, holds a palm tree with her left hand. She faces left. A boat sits in water in the center. Creatures populate the scene, including trees, a sunburst-like object emitting rays, a swirling circular pattern on the water, a fish-like creature, a nude man, various animals, birds, and buildings in the background. A city and a rainbow are visible in the distance. The engraving has a detailed, intricate style with shading and textures. The title is "Allegory of Life" and the artist is Giorgio Ghisi.