Artwork preview

Achilles Taking Leave of Thetis and Chiron

Mantuan or Ferrarese 16th Century

National Gallery of Art

This is a circular relief depicting three humans and a centaur. In the center, two people embrace, holding each other closely. The third human stands on the right holding a tall staff and a bow, looking to the left towards the other two. All three humans appear to have short hair and wear flowing tunics with tall boots. The bearded centaur is on the left, shown in profile, facing the embracing figures. It is shown mid-trot with one leg raised slightly off the ground, and it holds a long staff and several tall scroll-like objects. A flowing cape hangs from its shoulders. The background features textured surfaces resembling foliage or rocks. The material is a dark bronze color with an aged patina in some areas, giving it a brownish sheen.

Artwork Details

Date
first quarter 16th century
Medium
bronze
Dimensions
5206 × 5206 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette