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Tarquinius Priscus Entering Rome

Jacopo da Sellaioc. 1470

The Cleveland Museum of Art

The Cleveland Museum of Art
Cleveland, United States

Originally the front of a bridal chest, this panel was later removed and framed like a painting. At left, the Etruscan prophetess Tanaquil foresees her husband’s entry into Rome. En route, an eagle snatched his hat, then returned it as they approached the city, which Tanaquil interpreted as a good omen. Ancient triumphal processions, closely connected to ancient sarcophagi, were common subjects for bridal chests. Here Tanaquil is a model for a supportive, dutiful wife.

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  • Title: Tarquinius Priscus Entering Rome
  • Creator: Jacopo del Sellaio (Italian, c. 1441–1493)
  • Date Created: c. 1470
  • Physical Dimensions: Framed: 81.9 x 202.2 x 11.4 cm (32 1/4 x 79 5/8 x 4 1/2 in.); Unframed: 41 x 165.4 cm (16 1/8 x 65 1/8 in.)
  • Type: Painting
  • Rights: CC0
  • External Link: https://clevelandart.org/art/1942.646
  • Medium: tempera on wood, mounted on canvas
  • Fun Fact: This painting utilizes continuous narrative; the same figures appear multiple times as the story unfolds from left to right.
  • Department: Medieval Art
  • Culture: Italy, late 15th Century
  • Credit Line: Bequest of John L. Severance
  • Collection: MED - Medieval Art
  • Accession Number: 1942.646
The Cleveland Museum of Art

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