Circe Transforms Odysseus’ Companions into Animals

In the 17th century, Castiglione was one of the most important makers of Italian prints. The inventor of monotype and soft-ground etching was one of the first to study Rembrandt’s work. In his prints, he considered graphic techniques with their particular forms of expression as being on an equal footing with painting. Castiglione looked to mythology for his themes. This work depicts an episode from Homer’s Odyssey. We see Circe transforming Odysseus’ companions into animals with her magic wand, while their armour lies empty on the floor. Castiglione may have inherited his penchant for depicting animals from his teacher Scorza. He also enthusiastically studied Oriental-looking accessories, as shown by the lavish headdress worn by Circe. (Sonja Brink)