Count Antonio Maria Zanetti the Elder
Mucius Scaevola putting his hand in a brazier, c1749
Woodcut
16 x 10.5 cm
6 1/4 x 4 1/8 in
6 1/4 x 4 1/8 in
14/25
The block signed with monogram
£ 1,200.00
Zanetti was central to the C18th revival of chiaroscuro woodcuts. Visiting London in 1721, he bought a collection of drawings by Parmigianino and Raphael and, on his return to Venice,...
Zanetti was central to the C18th revival of chiaroscuro woodcuts. Visiting London in 1721, he bought a collection of drawings by Parmigianino and Raphael and, on his return to Venice, began to experiment with cutting chiaroscuro blocks himself, made after these drawings. In the 1730’s he issued 39 of his prints as a set, and in 1749 re-issued them alongside additional examples of his work. Caius Mucius was a legendary Roman hero who attempted to assassinate Etruscan leader Lars Porsenna, but by mistake killed his secretary. In disregard for his own life, Mucius thrust his right hand into an altar fire and let it burn. Porsenna, amazed at his endurance, let him go free. In later years Mucius came to symbolise patience and constancy.
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