Cloelia and the Etruscan King Porsenna

Artist: Georg Pencz, German, c.1500–1550
Date: c.1536–37
Material: Engraving
Classification: Prints
Collection: Prints, Drawings, and Photographs
Current Location: Not on view
Dimensions: plate: 3 1/8 x 4 1/2 in. (7.9 x 11.5 cm)
sheet: 3 1/8 x 4 5/8 in. (8 x 11.7 cm)
Credit Line: Gift of J. Lionberger Davis
Rights: Public Domain
Object Number: 69:1951

NOTES

Georg Pencz’s knowledge of Italy and Italian prints is evident in his engraving style and in his choice of subjects from ancient history and mythology. Cloelia was a Roman maiden who had engineered a successful aquatic escape to Rome from the Etruscan camp across the Tiber. She was returned to the enemy, but Lars Porsenna not only kept her safe, but freed her with other hostages at the end of the conflict.

We regularly update records, which may be incomplete. If you have additional information, please contact us at provenance@slam.org.