The Calumny of Apelles

This superb impression is based on an ancient description of a lost allegorical painting by the Greek artist Apelles. The lost painting, known as The Calumny of Apelles, expresses truths about calumny, or the telling of lies to ruin someone's reputation. Apelles painted it after he himself had nearly been put to death because of a rival's slander. Ghisi's engraving recreates the allegory by depicting a judge with large donkey ears sitting at right. He is advised by two female figures who represent Ignorance and Suspicion. The judge extends his hand to Calumny, who approaches with a burning torch in her left hand and with her right hand drags the youthful Innocence, who lifts his hands in despair. Envy, Treachery, and Deceit bring Calumny closer to the long-eared man. Fortunately, Truth and Time appear as two small figures in a cloud in the background, implying that the unjustly accused will be vindicated.